Zambia

Zambia envoy: Attack 'politically-motivated'

2011-11-23T14:21:00.001-08:00

Zambia's high commissioner to Canada has rejected allegations, made by his country's president, of financial impropriety at the Zambian mission under his watch.

Nevers Mumba says that Michael Sata's comments are a "politically-motivated attack," and he is now considering legal action against the government he is still currently serving.

Mr. Mumba is Zambia's former vice president and a political appointee of the then-ruling Movement for Multi-Party Democracy. That party was in power in Zambia from 1991 until last September, when it lost a national election to Mr. Sata's Patriotic Front party.

Along with being his nation's chief representative in Canada—until his announced departure in December—he is also the president of the Ottawa Diplomatic Association, an umbrella group representing the diplomatic community in Ottawa.

A Nov. 16 report published by the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation, a state-owned TV station and website, voiced Mr. Sata's feelings with the following statement: "The president is concerned that information obtained so far suggests serious financial impropriety at the mission in Toronto, which is under the supervision of Dr Nevers Mumba."

"The president hopes that Dr Mumba's impending visit to Zambia will provide law enforcement agencies an opportunity to engage him on the financial matters at the mission he supervised as high commissioner until his recent recall."

Read more from source http://goo.gl/RDbs8

never give up

2008-09-02T07:02:00.000-07:00

I have been out of zambian politics for while, I think this is getting interesting. Nevers for Prezy, http://allafrica.com/stories/200808290373.html. The following prayer uplifted me;

"Our strength lies in the fact that God is our healer and it is to Him and Him alone that we turn to at such a time as this. We continue to pray for your [President Mwanawasa] quick recovery and that the Lord will continue to strengthen the First Lady and the children...Be assured, Mr President, that all of Zambia is standing with you and lifting you up in prayer."

Nevers Mumba Ex VP (The Post )

Thanks Zambian Economist!

Nevers Pulls Out of 2006 Elections

2006-08-14T04:48:00.000-07:00

REFORM Party president pastor Nevers Mumba yesterday announced that he would not participate in this year's elections. More form source....

New Electoral Act and Bloggers

2006-07-24T08:53:00.000-07:00

Under a new electoral act the media will not be able to publish speculative analysis, unsourced opinion polls or predict the result before the official announcement, unless they are willing to risk a five-year jail sentence or US$2,500 fine.

"All public and private media personnel shall not broadcast their own political opinion, commentary or assessment," reads one clause of the new act passed early this year. The law also compels the media to identify the source of any published opinion poll, and the margin of error.

Source: IRIN Africa

Does this act apply to bloggers?

Posting Nonsense

2006-07-13T06:22:00.000-07:00

The article (Consecration Of Opportunism) aimed at Nevers Mumba is deeply flawed. It is not upto the Post editor to tell us how we should think. If the Post has an agenda to humiliate or bring down anyone they deslike so be it. We will simply stop reading their vile comments and hope they get bankrupt.

The Post is in the past, news in modern times is decided by readers not by by some stuck up fat editor with scores to settle. See, Digg is getting better than the New York Times.

Like any politician, Nevers Mumba has his shortcomings. What we need to concentrate on is his ability to deliver promises, especially to the less privileged Zambians of all creed.

News agencies have a role to play in society, to inform and enlighten period. Any attempt to influence people's perception and judgement is against the very basic ethics of News producers.

The Post is right to highlight current issues affecting us, but has not right whatsoever to tell us who we should vote for president.

Anderson Mazoka - R.I.P.

2006-05-24T01:52:00.000-07:00

I met the late Mazoka when he was in London campaigning for the 2001 elections. He came across as an articulate, intelligent and humble politician. I was well pleased with his emphasis on using technology for development in Zambia. I attended a number of UPND functions though I was not a subscribing member of the party.

My heart goes out to his family and friends. Rest in peace...

Zambia's opposition leader Mazoka dies in S.Africa

2006-05-24T01:31:00.000-07:00

Zambia's 63-year-old chief opposition leader Anderson Mazoka has died in a South African hospital, an official from his party said on Wednesday.
'Mr. Mazoka has died. All senior party executives are meeting now before a media announcement,' an official at his United Party for National Development told Reuters.
Mazoka died of kidney complications early on Wednesday, a week after Lusaka newspapers said he had been admitted to a Johannesburg hospital for a routine medical check-up.
Mazoka lost narrowly to President Levy Mwanawasa in 2001 presidential elections when Frederick Chiluba stepped down after his final five-year term as president. He was expected to lead an opposition alliance challenging Mwanawasa in elections later this year when the incumbent will defend his post.
Source: Reuters AlertNet

Zambia passes controversial electoral law

2006-04-05T04:12:00.000-07:00

"The bill is at best cosmetic and aimed at hoodwinking the Zambian people that the forthcoming elections will be held under a new electoral law," read more

50 percent-plus-one Rule

2006-03-14T01:51:00.000-08:00

Zambian government said the 50 percent-plus-one rule for winning presidency will not apply in this year's tripartite election, The Post reported Monday.

Information Minister Vernon Mwaanga was quoted as saying 'the 50 percent-plus-one is a constitutional matter. It will be dealt with under the constitutional reforms. It is not feasible to implement it this year because it is a constitutional matter.'

The current constitution allows the victor in the presidential election to be declared via a simple majority vote rather than the 50 percent-plus-one proposed by a panel appointed by President Levy Mwanawasa and backed by opposition parties.

Mwanawasa has said that the 2006 general elections will be held under the current constitution.

A hard lesson

2006-03-13T04:48:00.000-08:00

Cold Feet star, James Nesbitt, is in Zambia reporting for ITV News on child victims of aids in Zambia. ITV News will show reports about James Nesbitt's trip at 6.30pm from Monday, 13 March 2006 to Wednesday. Full storyRead more

National Democratic Front Alliance

2006-03-13T01:20:00.000-08:00

The alliance named National Democratic Front (NDF) is consistedof the All Peoples Congress, the Party for Unity, Democracy and Development, the Reform Party, Zambia Republican Party and the Zambia Development Congress.
A memorandum of understanding among the five political parties was signed by the leaders of the parties.
Patriotic Front leader Michael Sata who was scheduled to be part of the alliance pulled out at the last minute.
The NDF is the third opposition alliance formed this month in Zambia. On March 1 and 7 two other alliances were formed to challenge the ruling Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD) in the elections late this year.

Character Over Reputation

2006-03-11T05:28:00.000-08:00

"Political and church leaders, actors and actresses, singers,
writers, athletes, professors, engineers, doctors, lawyers and
practically everyone (although they may not be even aware of
what it truly means) are undoubtedly concerned about their
REPUTATION.

Even if we give high regards to integrity and dignity as values
taught everywhere in the world, we have been continuously
startled by news of moral downfalls. We've all heard of
government officials being persecuted, famous professional
athletes linked to drug usage, popular actors involved in
crimes, businessmen proven to have committed unethical
practices, and preachers not measuring up to what is expected
from them. Sadly, the list seems endless.

More than ever, there is a necessity for us to instill in
ourselves not just good reputation, but more importantly, good
character. Most of us are so concerned about our image - on how
others may look at us. Let me make this clear though. I am not
saying there is something wrong in assuring that we maintain a
good image. A learned person knows better not to give more
importance to reputation than his character. There is a big
distinction between the two."

Author Codi Morieta describing the importance of character over reputation.

No Need for Foreign Monitors in Peaceful Zambia

2006-03-11T02:34:00.000-08:00

"As far as I am concerned, there is no need to bring in foreign observers to monitor this year's elections because we are sure that Zambians are capable of handling such affairs without difficulties,"

French ambassador to Zambia, Francis Saudubray emphasising that Zambians were naturally peaceful people

Bloggers Exempted From Election-law Regulations

2006-03-09T11:38:00.000-08:00

A House of Representatives panel voted to exclude the Internet from the definition of "public communication" in the Bipartisan Campaign Finance Reform Act of 2002, taking a first step towards immunizing bloggers and other online pundits from election-law regulations that would have gagged them. It seems the House didn't buy critics' arguments that doing so would transform the Web into one big bulk mail campaign fed by soft money. "We don't expect bloggers to check with a federal agency before they go online," said House Administration Committee Chairman Vernon Ehlers, a Michigan Republican, referring to the Federal Election Commission. "They shouldn't have to read FEC advisory opinions (or have) to worry about running afoul of federal election laws." Rep. Juanita Millender-McDonald, a California Democrat, agreed. "Bloggers should be treated no different from talk radio," she said. "Talk radio hosts have protections under the First Amendment. While I may disagree with their positions on the issues of the day, I will nonetheless fight for their right to speak their mind."

Source: Siliconvalley.com

Zambia's Power Vacuum

2006-02-20T16:04:00.000-08:00

If there is anything I have learnt in my years of living away from home is the importance of family. Where I live, everything revolves around family activities. The local community with all it's ills strives to maintain family stability.

As a Zambian who believes in strong family values, it makes me so envious. And it hurts to watch our country lose the grip on family values. Family, more importantly children should come first at whatever cost.

I have met young people who have become so disillusioned with Zambian leadership. One twentysomething Zambian confided me that he would rather live illegally in a foreign country than stay in Zambia. I have no background information on this young man, but he mentioned one point that sums up my purpose for posting on this blog tonight. In his words he said " Zambia needs leaders who have the fear of God rather than leaders who worship mercedes cars."

Let's get our priorities right and fill ZAMBIA’S LEADERSHIP VACUUM with the relevant leadership.

Tories to use US internet tactics

2006-02-14T04:10:00.000-08:00

Mr Montgomerie, a Christian Conservative, favours the use of the internet to challenge reporting in the mainstream media, especially the BBC which he regards as “target number one”, and to build up grassroots campaigns in favour of Conservative ideas, if not formally the Tory party. Some rightwing Tories have accused the BBC of a leftwing bias.

more fom source....

Zambia to pass new electoral laws before poll

2006-01-13T13:35:00.000-08:00

Zambia to pass new electoral laws before poll: "Zambian President Levy Mwanawasa said on Friday he would introduce new laws aimed at reforming the electoral system ahead of general elections later this year.

Mwanawasa said the new electoral laws would be implemented to make this year's elections free and fair following persistent complaints from the opposition that the current system favours the ruling party."

BREAKING FROM THE PAST

2006-01-13T02:38:00.000-08:00

Dr. Nevers Mumba has outlined AN ECONOMIC PLAN FOR REFORM AND WEALTH CREATION IN ZAMBIA
.

The topic of our Economy is timely, as it is very important to take stock of our past economic development efforts, including the mistakes and good policies of the past and assess the current economic conditions in order to put up a future strategy.

REFORMED PARTY INTERIM LEADERSHIP

2005-12-26T14:35:00.000-08:00

REFORMED PARTY HEADQUARTERS

6 BEIT ROAD, LONGACRES

LUSAKA, ZAMBIA

INTERIM LEADERSHIP

President: Dr. Nevers S. Mumba

Deputy President: To be announced

Chairperson: Mrs. Eva Sanderson

National Secretary: Mr. Clement Micheelo

Deputy national Secretary: Mr. Cosmas Mpampi

National Treasurer: To be announced

Deputy Treasurer: Mrs. Miles Finnie

Chairman, Elections and Strategic Planning: Mr. John Ziba

Deputy Chairman, Elections: Mrs Lisa Passi

Chairman, Education: Edith Katongo

Chairperson, Womens League: Mrs. Isabel Ngambi Mumbuna

Chairperson, Youth League: Mr. Peter Mubili

Chairperson, Energy: Mr. Grier Mwanza

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS OF THE INTERIM COMMITTEE:

Economic Advisor to the President: Mr. Trevor Simumba

Note: Other positions are yet to be filled.

DR. NEVERS MUMBA ON THE STATE OF THE NATION AND THE VISION FOR REFORM IN ZAMBIA

2005-10-16T03:36:00.000-07:00

Dr Nevers Mumba has issued a powerful message of hope and renewal for Zambia. He has also made it clear that he has joined the Reform Party and will stand for the Presidency of the Reform Party in January 2006. Visit the Official Website to view the press statement.

New political party born in Zambia

2005-09-27T06:57:00.000-07:00

Zambia's former vice-president Nevers Mumba has formed a political party as part of his bid to challenge President Levy Mwanawasa in next year's elections, an aide said on Monday.

"He will be a national coordinator of the newly formed Reformed Party," said John Ziba, Mumba's spokesperson, who is also interim chairperson of the new party.

Mumba was sacked from the ruling party after he announced his intention to challenge Mwanawasa at a party national convention in July this year.

"Mumba will be our presidential candidate in next year's elections," Ziba said.

Mumba, a charismatic televangelist, served as Mwanawasa's vice-president for only 14 months before he was sacked for causing a diplomatic row with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

He also contested the 2001 presidential elections under the ticket of the defunct National Citizens Coalition, but lost to Mwanawasa. He then quit his opposition party and joined the ruling Movement for Multiparty Democracy. -- Sapa-AFP

Reform Party

2005-09-23T04:28:00.000-07:00

Dr Nevers Mumba, has identified himself with the newly formed Reform Party. Dr Mumba said yesterday during the Radio Phoenix's Face the Media programme that the Reform Party was determined to enter the political arena and the 2006 elections as a strong force and would soon be launched in Lusaka and the Copperbelt.
Jump to Full Story

Diplomatic Passport - why was Dr. Mumba singled out?

2005-09-20T01:36:00.000-07:00

The Mumba for President Media Campaign Team have responsded to the The Times of Zambia article about the public row over the diplomatic passport.

Under the Chiluba administration, diplomatic passports were issued to several ministers and pastors given that they were considered “Ambassadors” representing Zambia in the global arena whenever they travel abroad.

We see nothing wrong with that. What we take issue with is the way in which the Mwanawasa administration went after Dr. Mumba in regards to his possession of a diplomatic passport. Dr. Mumba informed the Ministry of Home Affairs that he would return his diplomatic passport on returning to Zambia which he has done. What was the need to blow this non-issue and make such a public hoop-la about it unless it was politically motivated?

This clearly shows that the Minister of Home Affairs was indulging in petty politics.

Mumba asked to surrender passport

2005-09-14T10:42:00.000-07:00

The Times of Zambiareports that the Zambian government has directed former Republican vice president Nevers Mumba to immediately surrender the controversial diplomatic passport or face the wrath of the law.

Nevers Mumba Campaign To Be Launched

2005-08-24T03:30:00.000-07:00

During a speech at the Pennsylvania Center for International Exchange and Partnership Nevers Mumba announced that he will be launching his presidential campaign:

"I intend to launch in the next few weeks my campaign and that of most Zambians to liberate ourselves from the old politics of hate and imprisonment of opponents and a lack of delivery of goods and services.

I am aware that Zambians want a consensus president and government. I am therefore of the view that the next government must be a people's government which represents the various interests of the Zambian people.

My team and I will continue to dialogue with other opposition parties before launching our campaign.

I remain committed and determined to play a role in the healing process of my nation. "

The 700 Club

2005-08-23T09:02:00.000-07:00

The CBN 700 Club has an interesting feature on Nevers Mumba.

Mumba Calls for Committee to Pressurise Levy Over Sata Charges

2005-08-19T08:16:00.000-07:00

FORMER vice-president Pastor Nevers Mumba has proposed the formation of a committee to lobby G8 nations to pressure President Mwanawasa to drop all charges against Patriotic Front president Michael Sata.
At a reception to honour him, co-sponsored by the Pennsylvania Centre for International Exchange and Partnership (PCIEP) and the Lancaster Country Action at Eden Resort Inn, Pennsylvania on Saturday, Pastor Mumba also said tolerance of corruption and abuse of democratic values by the current administration had taken Zambia backwards. Full article....

Where the truth lies

2005-07-23T04:52:00.000-07:00

Quote

"WE are wedded to lies and forced to live with them; that is why it seems that we are overwhelmed when we hear the truth.
We seem to live in a country where people can promise anything and deliver nothing but still get away with it.
We seem to live in a country where people can lie about very important things and still get away with it without being challenged by anyone.
We seem to live in a country of words and not actions. Yet we have been told that doing is the best way of saying and that living is the best way of showing what we believe in. It is said that words without deeds are worthless."

The Post editorial describing how the MMD And Mwanawasa Can't Survive Without Corruption

Dogs Have Invaded Zambian Politics

2005-07-15T10:55:00.000-07:00

The Post says Dogs Have Invaded Zambian Politics:

"It seems politics in Zambia has really gone to the dogs, or rather as others would say, the dogs have invaded Zambian politics."

Kavindele hoping to challenge Mwanawasa

2005-07-12T10:52:00.000-07:00

Former Zambian vice president Enoch Kavindele will challenge President Levy Mwanawasa at the ruling party's convention this week, posing a threat to Mwanawasa's bid for a second term next year.

Kavindele told reporters in Lusaka on Tuesday he had decided to seek the Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD) presidency after the party suspended polls for the position of vice president amid a deepening row over graft.

Kavindele said he would defy resolutions by eight of Zambia's nine provinces that Mwanawasa be the sole presidential candidate - automatically making him the party's choice for national presidential elections next year.

More from source: IOL: Kavindele hoping to challenge Mwanawasa.

Political Party Members' Expulsions

2005-07-12T10:41:00.000-07:00

It makes sad reading that fifteen years of democracy in Zambia there are still strong elements of non democratic principles among our political parties.

It appears most of our politicians still lack real education on democratic principles. The continued suspension of opponents to those at the helm of power has been evident in the last 15 years of proclaimed democracy. It appears many in Zambian political parties believe democracy is holding national or parliamentary elections only.

Yet democratisation is not only a concept, nor is it synonymous with multi -partyism. It is rather concerned with certain conditions of things, conditions such as a virile civil society, a democratic society, a free society, a just society, equal treatment of all citizens by the state, an ordered, stable society, a society infused with the spirit of liberty, democracy, justice and equality.

No society qualifies as democratic, representative, and progressive until there is free and voluntary participation of all its citizens in all spheres of life. The human rights of individuals and groups should be protected. Everyone should be allowed to express their opinions and join the political, religious or civil groups of their choice. All people should be treated equally and without discrimination and be given equal opportunities.

It is not only their right, but it is their duty. Citizen participation may take many forms including standing for election, voting in elections, becoming informed, debating issues, attending community or civic meetings, being members of private voluntary organizations, paying taxes, and even protesting. Participation builds a better democracy. In Zambia I have seen this not to have been the case. So long as one threatens those at the helm of power it means ones rights cannot be exercised.

I have noted, as most Zambians may have done so, that Zambia's political parties are still far away from assimilating the principles of democracy. They have often tended to be more divided as a party whenever a convention approaches. A sign that tolerance, openness, accountability, freedom of expression and association, above all, equal opportunities are not their priority but a prerogative of those in control.

The Zambian political parties needs respect for human, social, and economic rights as well as civil rights if democracy is to take hold, for democracy cannot survive in a context of stark polarization among political competitors.

In particular, the MMD has existed for close to 15 years now, more so, claims to be the pioneer of democracy and yet each of it's conventions are dogged by allegations of abuse of civil and political rights of its membership. Does this explain the eventual approach by its leadership concerning civil and political rights of the citizenry countryside? If so, how then can Zambia's democracy flourish when the tenets of it lack it? It is time political parties that claim to be democratic exercised the principles of democracy within political structures.

This implies allowing all members of political parties their civil rights to contest for any position and campaign without fear in their political parties. Other than this, I see no democracy in Zambia. Thence the eventual tramping on NGOs, Media, Opposition and the Civil Society.

Source:ZambiaSossa: Political Party Members' Expulsions

Web closes on Africa's dirty deals

2005-07-11T08:18:00.000-07:00

A new website that can be used as a tool to monitor and acquire information on the funding of all political parties in Africa was launched in Cape Town on Friday.

The website was launched jointly by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Organised Crime and Corruption Programme and the Institute for Democracy in SA (Idasa) Political Information and Monitoring Service.

Source IOL

Corruption claims shake Zambia's ruling party

2005-07-11T05:28:00.000-07:00

The Mail & Guardian Online reports:

"Zambia's ruling party has expelled a senior member and popular politician over allegations of corruption just days before the start of a national convention called to elect a new party leadership, a spokesperson said on Monday.

Tipped to win the Movement for Multiparty Democracy's (MMD) vice-presidency at the convention starting on Wednesday, Austin Chewe was axed on Sunday night by the national executive committee in a move that could split the party."

Kitwe Press Club Banned

2005-07-06T08:52:00.000-07:00

The Kitwe Press Club was banned by the Kitwe district commissioner's office last week after hosting Nevers Mumba last month on his political career. In reaction, Nevers Mumba's spokesperson John Ziba said yesterday "We Won't Allow Fascists to Trample On Our Right to Information".

Zambia's 'stolen' £13m is frozen

2005-06-28T07:39:00.000-07:00

"Zambia has filed a lawsuit in London against its former president, demanding the return of a multimillion-dollar fortune allegedly plundered from state coffers.
Lawyers for the Zambian government claim that Frederick Chiluba and his associates deposited $24 million (£13 million) of assets in London bank accounts, and have obtained an order from the High Court to freeze the assets while the case is heard.
The allegation of theft is strongly denied by Chiluba - who led the southern African country until 2001 - and the other defendants. They insist that the money was obtained legitimately." Continued......

Levy's Attempt to Silence Zambians Will Boomerang

2005-06-25T07:04:00.000-07:00

"IT seems President Levy Mwanawasa and his minions do not learn or are incapable of learning. They seem to be jumping, like monkeys, from one violation of the Constitution to another.
It seems in their desperation to hide their heinous deeds, they have now resorted to a systematic campaign of repression. They want to shut any mouth that opens up to expose the crimes of their league. They have started a reckless and dangerous assault on our people's freedom of speech and that of expression. They don't even seem to care that this is a constitutionally protected fundamental right. What of the summoning of people every day to police stations to be questioned on what they said on some radio programme or on what they were quoted to have said in some newspaper, or indeed on what was published under their by-line over the last few weeks? Why are they in such a frenzy? What are they trying to hide that is worrying them so much that if the people come to know, they may lose their manliness? What is it? Whatever it is, it must be a very big transgression, a gigantic crime." More from source.....

related posts on Zambia

Journalist charged with sedition in Zambia for giving the fax

2005-06-25T06:05:00.000-07:00

The Cape Times reports: "Lusaka: Police here on Wednesday interrogated journalist Anthony Mukwita and charged him with sedition. He faces a seven year jail sentence or an option of a fine, Mukwita confirmed, but said he had not been arrested yet.

Mukwita is the Cape Times correspondent in Zambia.

He was questioned over a fax he read out during a prime time radio programme he hosts on Lusaka's privately owned Radio Phoenix on June 10.

The fax was signed by 'annoyed Zambians' who cautioned President Levy Mwanawasa that he would 'slide the country into anarchy' if he did not listen to Zambians over various social, political and economic issues. "

Govt Pursues Nevers Over Diplomatic Passport

2005-06-23T14:53:00.000-07:00

"THE government is pursuing former Republican vice-president Pastor Nevers Mumba over his diplomatic passport.
And police yesterday questioned Radio Phoenix's Face The Media programme presenter Anthony Mukwita regarding a fax he read on June 10, 2005 from a listener that expressed fears that President Mwanawasa might slide the nation into chaos."
More from source:

Ruling Party Distances Itself From Attack On Newspaper

2005-06-17T13:41:00.000-07:00

Zambia's ruling party, the Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), on Friday denied that it had authorised any attack on the media, after claims that its supporters had attacked newspaper vendors.
'We are committed to a democratic regime and believe in the freedom of the press,' MMD spokesman Akashambatwa Mbikusita-Lewanika told IRIN.

The Post, a privately owned daily newspaper, alleged that supporters of the MMD had attacked its vendors and confiscated copies of the newspaper at its printing plant in the capital, Lusaka, on Wednesday morning.

More from UN Integrated Regional Information Networks :

IPI Calls for Arrest of MMD Thugs

2005-06-17T09:39:00.000-07:00

INTERNATIONAL Press Institute (IPI) director Dr Johann Fritz has condemned ruling MMD thugs' attack on Post Newspaper vendors yesterday.
And Post Newspapers Limited circulation manager Elizabeth Nyirenda disclosed that suspected MMD cadres yesterday morning went wild grabbing copies of The Post from the vendors in Lusaka,Zambia.

In a statement from Vienna, Austria yesterday, Dr Fritz called for the prosecution of the MMD thugs. More from source...

Radio Phoenix Public Affairs Programme Host Questioned By Police, Fired By Station

2005-06-17T09:36:00.000-07:00

On 14 June 2005, Lusaka police questioned Anthony Mukwita, a Radio Phoenix 'Let the People Talk' programme host, over a fax anonymously sent, which he had read on air during the 10 June edition of the programme. The fax accused the government of condoning corruption and warned that the country might slip into anarchy as a result.

Mukwita told MISA that a chief investigations officer for Lusaka Division and two detectives followed him to the MISA Zambia offices from where he operates and questioned him in connection with the fax, signed only 'Annoyed Zambians'.
'They demanded to have a copy of the fax, which cautioned the Mwanawasa administration to be responsive to the people's needs or risk throwing the country into anarchy through another attempted coup, similar to the one staged by Captain Stephen in 1997,' Mukwita told MISA Zambia.
Mukwita said the police wanted him to give a statement but he refused, insisting that he would only do so in the presence of his lawyer. The interview was done in the presence of MISA Zambia's chairperson, Kellys Kaunda.

In a related development, Radio Phoenix has terminated Mukwita's contract as of 16 June, citing his decision to read the controversial fax on the 'Let the People Talk' programme, among other reasons.
In a 15 June statement, Kaunda condemned the police action saying it was part of a grand scheme to silence the 'Let The People Talk' forum, the only platform available to the Zambian people to air their views freely.
Mukwita will be questioned again in the presence of a lawyer at the MISA Zambia secretariat on 16 June.

BACKGROUND
The fax was sparked off by a Radio Phoenix programme which broadcast a discussion of the state's 17 May decision to not proceed with its case against former health permanent secretary Kashiwa Bulaya. Bulaya was being prosecuted for alleged abuse of office involving the allocation of K3 billion Kwacha (approx. US$640,000) for the government purchase of anti-retroviral drugs from a Bulgarian company in which he allegedly has financial interests.

The state's decision had resulted in Bulaya's discharge, which was met by sharp criticism from "The Post" newspaper and other quarters.

On 14 June, Justice Minister George Kunda instructed Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Chalwe Mchenga to resume Bulaya's prosecution due to public outcry and the need to avoid anarchy in the country.

"Let the People Talk" is a popular interactive discussion programme on public affairs.

Media Institute of Southern Africa
(Windhoek)
PRESS RELEASE
June 15, 2005

Private press victim of deteriorating political climate

2005-06-17T03:47:00.000-07:00

Reporters Without Borders has expressed concerned about growing tension engulfing opposition media after a radio journalist was questioned for reading a listener's fax on air and newspaper sellers were brutally attacked by presidential party activists.
The press freedom organisation urged the Lusaka police chief, in a letter, not to allow the press to become a scapegoat.

"The press are often a convenient scapegoat when the political climate in a country deteriorates", Reporters Without Borders said in a letter to the regional police chief in Lusaka, Chendela Musonda.

"The two recent incidents reported in Zambia seem to us worrying in this context. The interrogation of a journalist and the assault on newspaper sellers are signals that we would not like to see repeated. That is why we are asking you, on one hand to ensure that the services that you are in charge of observe the strictest legality in dealings with the press and respect the principle of protection of sources of information. On the other hand, we have noted your actions aimed at punishing the perpetrators of the assaults on the sellers of the Post. We nevertheless ask you to see to it that these investigations are thorough and independent.

"Unless this happens, suspicion which would undoubtedly fall on the Zambian police, could aggravate a situation that is already quite unstable."

Mwanawasa's ally to be probed once more

2005-06-16T13:45:00.000-07:00

"Zambia will re-open the trial of a close ally of President Levy Mwanawasa accused of diverting cash meant for Aids drugs, a senior official said on Wednesday, bowing to pressure from donors and the public." more...

Mumba Urged to Form Party As Sanderson Quits MMD

2005-06-15T15:27:00.000-07:00

The Post (Lusaka) reports:

"MMD National Executive Committee (NEC) chairperson for lands Eva Sanderson has resigned from the party. And expelled MMD presidential aspirant Pastor Nevers Mumba's Copperbelt-based supporters have asked him to form his own party and not join any of the existing parties.
Sanderson in her resignation letter to MMD national secretary Vernon Mwaanga dated June 12, 2005 said that corruption at the highest level of the party and at the State House as well as undemocratic tendencies within the party were the reasons for her resignation."

Levy is Morally Crippled - Nevers

2005-06-13T11:11:00.000-07:00

"PRESIDENT Mwanawasa has been morally crippled in the fight against corruption, expelled MMD presidential aspirant Pastor Nevers Mumba has charged.

Speaking on the Face the Media programme on Yatsani Radio yesterday, Pastor Mumba also said President Mwanawasa, like Saul in the Bible, had fallen on the sword he was using to fight corruption.
Pastor Mumba said he joined government to help fight corruption and that he did his part with tremendous resolve.
He said President Mwanawasa championed himself as the father in fighting corruption but that what Pastor Mumba later discovered shocked him." More from source.....

Levy Should Stop Lying

2005-06-10T07:23:00.000-07:00

This editorial from The Post Newspaper confronts "the dishonesty of Levy and his minions".

Zambia's Mwanawasa under fire on graft campaign

2005-06-05T10:34:00.000-07:00

"Zambian President Levy Mwanawasa's anti-graft credentials have been battered after his government halted the case of an ally charged with squandering millions of dollars meant for AIDS drugs, analysts said on Sunday.
Opposition groups, diplomats and newspapers questioned Mwanawasa's commitment to fighting graft after the country's top prosecutor dropped proceedings against former health ministry official Kashiwa Bulaya." Full News Coverage....

sticky web of political blogss

2005-06-02T06:55:00.000-07:00

FEC treads into sticky web of political blogs: "Web loggers, who pride themselves on freewheeling political activism, might face new federal rules on candidate endorsements, online fundraising and political ads, though bloggers who don't take money from political groups would not be affected.

Draft rules from the Federal Election Commission, which enforces campaign finance laws, would require that paid political advertisements on the Internet declare who funded the ad, as television spots do."

Mice and Men

2005-06-01T18:30:00.000-07:00

This reminds me of a neighbourhood spoilt brat who who resorts to walking away with his toys when no one agrees or panders to his whim.

Honestly, if the MMD does not wish to go in history as a corrupt clique, they have failed to show it.

Expelling Nevers Mumba is a shameless cope-out.

What makes men want to be mice?

perhaps it's so they have an excuse for any cowardly behavior; or maybe it's just because they like cheese.

To be a mouse, or not to be a mouse. That is the question. Whether nobler in the minds of many that the mouse is indeed the nobler, therefore the noblest of the nobles is the mouse. Therefore we should all chill and eat cheese...

Zambia ruling party expels former vice president

2005-06-01T04:35:00.000-07:00

"Zambia's ruling Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD) party has expelled former vice president Nevers Mumba for lack of discipline after he accused President Levy Mwanawasa of involvement in corruption.
MMD national secretary Vernon Mwaanga told journalists on Wednesday that Mumba had been expelled for bringing the party's name into 'ridicule' and for lack of discipline." Full News Coverage:

Mumba Will Not Silenced

2005-05-19T05:37:00.000-07:00

The rattled MMD leadership just wish that Nevers Mumba goes away quietly. This is a tall order because Pastor Mumba said, Expelling Me From MMD Won't Silence Me.

"We are all witnessing the mutilation of democracy and the enslavement of the Zambian spirit. They are working to deny us the freedom of self-determination," Pastor Mumba said.

"When the freedom of choice is taken away from a human being, the human spirit cries out for relief," he said. "Our collective human spirit in Zambia is crying out for relief from those who are determined to suppress the freedom of choice."

MMD NEC ready to meet Mumba in court

2005-05-11T10:59:00.000-07:00

Times of Zambia reports: "THE MMD National Executive Committee (NEC) is ready to meet former vice-president Nevers Mumba in court over an injunction he has filed seeking remedy ahead of the national convention, President Mwanawasa said yesterday."

The Truth Will Prevail

2005-05-03T15:38:00.000-07:00

After building his reputation in the fight against corruption, President Levy Mwanawasa's legacy hit a rock following reports that he has handed out money to his campaign team to bribe delegates to his party's crucial convention next month.

Mwanawasa is usually quick in responding to accusations and criticism, but on this occasion he has chosen to remain silent, and the Presidential Anti-Corruption Reputation Sinks.

Sweden Examines Opposition Petition

2005-04-28T15:31:00.000-07:00

SWEDEN is consulting fellow donors on the petition by five opposition political parties asking the donor community to pressure Government over alleged electoral malpractices ahead of the 2006 elections. More from source....

"Fear and Loathing" Among the MMD NEC

2005-04-22T15:10:00.000-07:00

Let's us not overlook the underlying issue, which is graft within the ruling party. In the US lots of Republicans are in a sweat over the widening ethics investigation into the dealings of Washington rainmaker Jack Abramoff
BusinessWeek Online reports "Lawmakers' fears were stoked several weeks ago, when reports surfaced that Abramoff might have information that could -- emphasis on could -- make trouble for some Republicans."

Leadership challenges are part and parcel of any democracy. Simply standing against the current president does not constitute disloyalty.

'To announce that there must be no criticism of the president, or that we are to stand by the president right or wrong, is not only unpatriotic and servile, but is morally treasonable to the American public.' - Theodore Roosevelt

It is not disruptive nor is it 'biting the hand that feeds you' to challenge the incubent President through a voting system. Expelling of Dr. Mumba from the MMD NEC is simply a desperate act by a rattled leader. This approach won't cut it in the absence of a full disclosure of the facts.

Our leaders will only be truly world statesmen once they learn to face up to challenges without fear of losing. Politicians who are fearful of new challenges are dogged by shoddy old fashioned habits.

I hope Zambians mature beyond personal politics and embrace issue-driven politics instead. We have enough information before us to draw our own conclusions.

DR. MUMBA EXPELLED FROM MMD NEC

2005-04-22T02:07:00.000-07:00

"BREAKING NEWS"

We regret to inform you that the MMD National Executive Committee (NEC) has expelled Dr. Nevers Mumba from the MMD NEC and has postponed the MMD Convention.

This is a sad day for democracy in Zambia and should be protested in the strongest terms by all Zambians regardless of Party affiliation. We call on the international community to immediately investigate the circumstances leading to Dr. Mumba's expulsion from the MMD NEC. Donor communities and nations need to pay attention to what is happening in Zambia.

We have been warning for some time of the increasing threats against Dr. Mumba's candidacy leading to his suspension from the MMD NEC. Dr. Mumba has dismissed the charges against him and the strongest of actions has been taken against him by expelling him from the MMD NEC. We believe this action shows that the current MMD leadership will stop at nothing to hinder democracy in Zambia.

Dr. Mumba had firm evidence of electoral corruption and presented this to the MMD Leadership. In response, the MMD Leadership has expelled him from the NEC. This is corruption at its best.

Zambia is a free and democratic nation. The action taken against Dr. Mumba violates democratic principles and values and should not be allowed to stand. The people of Zambia will not stand for this.

Mumba for President Campaign Team

Mumba Dismisses Charges Against Him

2005-04-19T16:07:00.000-07:00

MMD PRESIDENTIAL aspirant Pastor Nevers Mumba has dismissed charges against him and demanded better and further particulars of the offences he
is alleged to have committed. Read more....

Mumba is headed for landslide victory

2005-04-16T16:54:00.000-07:00

PASTOR Mumba is heading for a landslide victory at the MMD convention, his spokesperson John Ziba has declared. But mines minister Kaunda Lembalemba has said Pastor Mumba would fall heavily at the MMD convention.Read on.....

I'm in Full Gear With My Campaign - Mumba

2005-04-13T03:31:00.000-07:00

"MMD presidential aspirant Pastor Nevers Mumba yesterday said he was in full gear with his campaign ahead of the party's national convention.
Pastor Mumba said his suspension from the MMD's national executive committee would not slow down his campaigns and that he was focusing on winning the party presidency." Link to story

Campaign material destroyed

2005-04-13T03:25:00.000-07:00

Unknown people in Mazabuka have pulled down and destroyed campaign materials for suspended MMD Presidential aspirant Dr. Nevers Mumba. Link to story:

Debt Relief, at what price?

2005-04-10T17:00:00.000-07:00

CNN.com reports

"Mumba had been given 10 days to prove his allegations against Mwanawasa or face unspecified 'sanctions."

What is this all about? Surely, we all know that Zambia is a very poor country. The reason we are rallying behind Dr Mumba is simply because we know that there no such thing as a free lunch. If all the nice people at the World Bank and the IMF are doubtful about our gratitude we shall remind them of how weary and tired we are about overburdening the international community with issues we can take care of on our own.

While the whole world is prepared to assist Zambians at this moment of great need, let's keep in mind that we, as Zambians, will payback by ensuring that we have the right calibre of leadership in place inorder to prevent the shameful, degrading and humiliating experience of relying on other people's sweat.

It will be a great day when the sympathetic and kind people everywhere acknowledged that their generosity is highly appreciated. The best way we can prove this as Zambians is by placing the right kind of leadership in position.

Mumba Suspension by MMD NEC Reeks of Foul Play

2005-04-10T05:52:00.000-07:00

Dr. Mumba's suspension from the MMD NEC sends a very dangerous signal: do not challenge the status quo or you will be targeted. It also raises suspicions of what is really going on and why.

It is clear that the premise under which the MMD NEC has suspended Dr. Mumba is flawed and raises a lot of suspicions. Why? Dr. Mumba clearly followed MMD Party protocol when he submitted his letter on the allegations of corruption to the Party Secretary, Vernon Mwaanga. Someone in the MMD Secratariat has leaked the letter to the press. How can we determine this without much investigation? Read carefully the text of the article in The Post (April 8) regarding his suspension: "And when reached for comment, Pastor Mumba said he could not discuss in the media the contents of his letter because doing that would be against the party's procedure. He said if he had a complaint, procedure entailed that he complain through the national secretary. 'The national secretary has not replied, so I cannot say anything on that,' Pastor Mumba said. 'It is only when the national secretary responds that I will know whether or not I will be at liberty to discuss that issue.'

Key words: And when reached for comment. Dr. Mumba was approached by The Post about his letter meaning The Post had access to that letter prior to approaching Dr. Mumba for comment. So how did the MMD Party NEC come to the conclusion that Dr. Mumba leaked the letter to the Press? What proof do you have that it was Dr. Mumba who leaked the letter on which basis you have taken this action to suspend him from the NEC? We hold the MMD Party Leadership accountable to provide a truthful answer to this question.

The real issue now is who in Mr. Mwaanga's office leaked that letter to The Post? That is where the breach of confidentially has taken place. We call upon the MMD Party Secretary to launch a thorough investigation and identify who in his office leaked the letter to the press. Secondly, we demand that the suspension order be immediately rescinded. Dr. Mumba’s letter, which is now public due to the leak, contained highly confidential issues which he submitted, as per Party rules, to the MMD Party Secretary. How the letter was leaked to the press demands a thorough investigation and the truth revealed.

Our suspicions of the MMD’s attempts to squash and silence Dr. Mumba through threats and intimidation to force him to withdraw his candidacy has been confirmed by this latest action. The people of Zambia demand answers to the following questions:
1) Did the MMD Party President, Mr. Mwanawasa know about the leak and did he play a part in authorizing the leak to the press of his opponent’s CONFIDENTIAL letter to Party Secretary? In other words, what did the President know and when did he know about it?
2) When Dr. Mumba was dismissed in October 2004, he sent Mr. Mwanawasa a CONFIDENTIAL letter. Mr. Mwanawasa read that letter that was sent to him in CONFIDENCE to the press. As an attorney, Mr. Mwanawasa surely understands the issue of confidentiality. Then why did he deliberately read Dr. Mumba’s letter (that he sent to him in confidence) to the press? Mr. Mwanawasa also exposed confidential correspondence he had with former Vice-President Enoch Kavindele prior to his dismissal. Is there any reason to doubt that we have before us a repeat performance whereby another confidential letter from Dr. Mumba to the party leadership has been leaked to the press deliberately? The last time, it was the Party President. Who did it this time?
3) It is apparent to us that Dr. Mumba’s popularity has grown since his announcement. He demonstrated leadership and courage in coming out boldly to state to the nation that the current MMD Party President cannot win the 2006 elections. He laid before the nation why he was running for President (www.neversforpresident.com). He stated what many within the party have known for a long time but were afraid to state publicly: Mr. Mwanawasa was not a winning candidate for the MMD in 2006. Dr. Mumba exercised his democratic right to contest for a vacant position within the MMD Party. Is this yet another attempt to squash his candidacy at the Convention?
4) Is this latest suspension action by the MMD NEC a prelude to Dr. Mumba’s expulsion from the MMD party just before the May 4th. Convention in Kabwe?

We have noted that the suspension does not prevent him from contesting for any position in the Party. However, we are forced to conclude that his suspension from the National Executive Committee of the MMD is a sign of desperation by the party leadership to try to protect the incumbent at all cost. In so doing, those responsible for taking this action have violated all democratic values and principles. The people at the grassroots in Zambia will not stand for this.

We call on all MMD Party officials to immediately investigate the allegations brought out by Dr. Mumba of electoral corruption within the Party, thoroughly investigate and identify who leaked to the press Dr. Mumba’s confidential letter to the MMD Party Secretary, and immediately rescind the suspension order and continue Dr. Mumba’s membership in the NEC. Anything less would only increase the cloud of suspicion of foul play that now hangs over the MMD Party and the trust of the Zambian people in the ruling party would be lost.

And if the allegations of electoral corruption at the Presidential level prove to be true, the people of Zambia deserve to know about it NOW, not after the MMD convention in Kabwe on May 4th.

The world is watching.

Joshua Ngoma and Victor Chanda
Mumba for President Campaign Team

Dr. Mumba's suspension - Comments

2005-04-10T03:42:00.000-07:00

This latest move by the MMD NEC confirms that they have systematically worked to silence him. If corruption is being investigated in the MMD, shouldn't it begin at the top? We are reminded of the old adage, 'The fish rots from the head.'

There must be a national and international outcry about what is being done to Dr. Mumba in a democratice Zambia. How is he, as a candidate aspiring for national office, supposed to campaign when he is being suspended on baseless charges just three weeks before the MMD Convention? His popularity, especially among the grassroots, has continued to grow since his announcement. The MMD now faces the real possibility that Mr. Mwanawasa could be defeated at the Convention. This move on their part to suspend Dr. Mumba is wrong when several MMD leaders are on record as having made statements to the press. If those MMD officials can speak to the press expressing threats to Dr. Mumba, why is Dr. Mumba being singled out to be suspended for speaking to the media?

Dr. Mumba launched his campaign by stating that this was a test of democracy in Zambia. The MMD party is not living up to its claims to be a democratic party. And that is very troubling for a ruling party. The people of Zambia are tired of this kind of leadership. It is time for a change.

Josh Ngoma and Victor Chanda
Mumba for President Campaign Media Team

Nevers Explains His Suspension

2005-04-10T03:40:00.000-07:00

'Presidential aspirant Pastor Nevers Mumba yesterday claimed that his suspension from the ruling party's national executive committee (NEC) was meant to divert attention from the electoral corruption charges he raised against President Levy Mwanawasa.'
Read more....

San Francisco may regulate blogging

2005-04-09T09:10:00.000-07:00

And we will die on the blogging barricades to defend ... what? Oh. Never mind. The headline that buzzed through the Net this week was 'San Francisco may regulate blogging,' and across the blogosphere there were outraged howls of pain as knees jerked, slamming into desks. It took a little while (and a few people actually reading the proposed ordinance) for a fuller picture to emerge, that picture revealing an electioneering law intended to add transparency to political sponsorship. Far from specifically targeting blogs, the law would require anyone promulgating a political message through any medium that reaches 500 or more people and spends more than $1,000 in that effort needs to say so, clearly and publicly. Still worth a good, if less hysterical, debate.

Source: Siliconvalley.com

The growing influence of blogs

2005-04-09T09:07:00.000-07:00

A newly-published white paper on blogs from PR agency group Edelman and marketing intelligence firm Intelliseek explores the importance of blogging for public relations and marketing, and provides a first-of-its-kind directory of influential bloggers, segmented by industry.

The report, Trust MEdia: How Real People Are Finally Being Heard (22-page PDF available for download from both firms' websites) says that in a very short time, the blogging phenomenon has drastically altered the business landscape and challenged traditional beliefs about the control of messaging by corporations, the media, the government, marketers and company stakeholders.

Media coverage of Africa

2005-04-09T05:36:00.000-07:00

Media coverage of Africa is biased and weighted heavily with negative undertones. At the recent African Presidential Roundtable 2005 held in Johannesburg, 11 former African heads of state taking part expressed this concern:

'We mustn't condone bad reporting in America which brings the bad image (on Africa). Please report correctly,' he asked journalists.

Kenneth Kaunda, the former Zambian president, laid the blame for Zimbabwe's current problems, especially those relating to land, at Britain's doorstep. 'Mugabe gave them (Britain) 10 years to put things right. They didn't. It is the British government which must be blamed, especially the present one,' he said.

I have followed western (UK, US) media's coverage of Africa for a while now. This biased approach has always been apparent to me. It's all you can expect from people who have nothing much to report on. On one hand Africans should be more responsible in deliverying well sourced information that provide a true picture of what's going on in Africa.

The lack of information flow produces a vacuum that is so easily exploited by people with vested interest in Africa.

Constructive Criticism

2005-04-09T04:52:00.000-07:00

'To announce that there must be no criticism of the president, or that we are to stand by the president right or wrong, is not only unpatriotic and servile, but is morally treasonable to the American public.' - Theodore Roosevelt

Nevers Accuses Levy of Electoral Corruption

2005-04-08T11:10:00.000-07:00

"MMD presidential aspirant Pastor Nevers Mumba has accused President Levy Mwanawasa of electoral corruption and has asked the MMD's national executive committee to probe the accusation.
In a letter dated April 4, 2005 to MMD national secretary Vernon Mwaanga, Pastor Mumba stated that his committee had received disturbing reports of blatant corruption of members, especially in Northern, Luapula and Copperbelt provinces."Read More...

MMD Tribunal Completes South Sittings

2005-04-06T05:57:00.000-07:00

The Times of Zambia reports: "THE MMD National Executive Committee (NEC) tribunal appointed to investigate alleged malpractices by some candidates aspiring for various positions in the party has completed sitting in Southern Province"

Mumba sure of defeating Levy

2005-04-06T05:35:00.000-07:00

FORMER vice-president Nevers Mumba yesterday expressed confidence that he would defeat President Mwanawasa in the elections for the position of party president at the forthcoming MMD convention in May. Read more

MMD NEC’S “FINAL WARNING”

2005-04-01T21:02:00.000-08:00

MMD NEC’S “FINAL WARNING” TO DR. MUMBA A BLOW TO DEMOCRACY IN ZAMBIA

Is the MMD a democratic party? Their latest attempt to silence the candidacy of Dr. Mumba for the party presidency would seem to indicate not.

The article in the April 1 edition of The Post states that the MMD National Executive Committee (NEC) yesterday gave a FINAL WARNING to former vice-president and MMD president aspirant Pastor (Dr.) Nevers Mumba against conducting his campaigns in a provocative manner.

We find the nature of latest round of threats from MMD Party Leaders directed at Dr. Mumba to be very troubling. The words, “final warning” in and of themselves sound very ominous and we call on all Zambians, both at home and abroad, to take note of the dramatic underlying tone of this warning from the MMD NEC. We are particularly concerned by the ominous tone of this “final warning” to Dr. Mumba since it is comes on the verge of a nation-wide tour that Dr. Mumba is about to embark on to take his message of hope and renewal directly to the people of Zambia.

It is obvious to us that the MMD Party leadership is clearly seeking to intimidate not only Dr. Mumba but anyone who may know in their heart of hearts that he is a strong and viable candidate versus Mr. Levy Mwanawasa and would like to support him. It is a sad day for democracy in Zambia when Party Leaders threaten and intimidate candidates from seeking office by resorting to threats to viable candidates. You cannot fool the Zambian people. It is obvious that your threats to Dr. Mumba are also meant to threaten the people of Zambia.

The MMD NEC’s “final warning” to Dr. Mumba is alarming for several reasons:
1) Dr. Mumba is a bonafide member of the MMD who is exercising his democratic right to contest for the presidency of the MMD Party. He is an honorable member of the party who has served not only his party but his nation with honor as the former Vice-President of Zambia. To be issued a “final warning” by the MMD party leaders reveals clearly that the MMD Party claim to support democratic ideals is suspect.

2) Why is Dr. Mumba being referred to as an “outsider?” Is this how the ruling party in Zambia treats members? Aren’t members entitled to all the rights and privileges of the party? This nonsense of referring to Dr. Mumba as an “outsider” should cease immediately. Otherwise, every member of the MMD Party needs to rethink their membership in that party. Who wants to belong to a party that publicly refers to aspiring leaders in their party as “outsiders” and “visitors” who have no right to speak to the issues in the party?

3) The 1,333 delegates to the MMD Convention at Mulungushi Rock in Kabwe in May should ask themselves very seriously whether they can be proud to be MMD Party Members when their leadership is intimidating and threatening one of their own? If they are doing this to Dr. Mumba today, is it not possible that they will do the same thing tomorrow to any one of the 1,333 delegates?

4) To be given a “final warning” is tantamount to an ultimatum. So we are forced to ask the ones who issued this “final warning,” what constitutes a violation of your “final warning?”

Zambia is facing tremendous challenges as a nation. Since independence in 1964, Zambia has gone from being a breadbasket to being a basket case. Zambia is crying out for visionary leaders who can lead the nation out of this valley of hopelessness and despair.

The current President had five years to bring about change to Zambia. What has been done to revive our economy? What has been done to improve education? What has been done to improve our infrastructure? What has been done to make Zambia a respectable member of the international community? What has been done to eliminate corruption?

The current MMD leadership continues to display a pattern of intimidation and scare tactics. Dr. Mumba will not be intimidated nor allow these scare tactics to hinder or block his quest for the presidency of the MMD Party and the national presidency because he believes that we as a nation can do better. He is clearly the candidate who brings hope and vision to the table.

To the 1,333 delegates to the MMD Convention, you hold in your hands the ability to make or break Zambia’s chance to change for the better. It can only happen if the right leader is in place. We call on the 1,333 delegates to the MMD Convention to take your voting privilege at the convention seriously. You will be voting individually, not as a block. You will be voting by secret ballot and need not be intimidated or pressured into voting for someone you do not want to vote for. You have the most precious privilege in a democratic country and that is the right to exercise your vote as an individual.

We ask each of the 1,333 delegates to truly search your hearts and ask yourself who is the better candidate who can lead Zambia? Let us not forget that Zambia is at a crossroads. Zambia needs a leader who has the vision, the vigor, the trust and the ability to represent Zambia with pride in the international community. Zambia needs a leader who can restore hope to the Zambian people.
The MMD Party Leaders who have issued Dr. Mumba this “final warning” need to tell the people of Zambia why this “final warning” was necessary. They owe the Zambian people an explanation as to why they are treating Dr. Mumba with disrespect when he has served honorably as the former vice-president of the nation.

The issuance of a “final warning” by the MMD NEC to Dr. Mumba has raised the pattern of threats and intimidation toward Dr. Mumba to a new level. We have noted that the level of attacks against him has been steadily increasing over the recent days. We call on all MMD Party officials to cease these tactics of fear and intimidation toward Dr. Mumba. These tactics violate democratic values and principles.

We call on the current president of the MMD Party, Mr. Mwanawasa himself, to retract the “final warning” issued by his party. We cannot begin to imagine what is being said to Dr, Mumba behind closed doors. We can only conclude that Mr. Mwanawasa himself is approving the threats, scare tactics, and intimidation against Dr. Mumba and will be held personally responsible for whatever consequences may result for any violation of this “final warning” to Dr. Mumba, whatever that may be.

The world is watching.

Josh Ngoma
Mumba for President Campaign MediaTeam

MMD NEC Warns Mumba Against Provocative Campaign

2005-04-01T08:55:00.000-08:00

The Zambia Post Online reveals the MMD NEC's hostile attitude to Never Mumba's Campaign. Zambian politicians need to wise up. There was a time when you could intimidate and bully your way into power, and no one would notice.

The modern battles are fought with the whole world watching, and if the Zambian politicians do not want to be reduced to political pariahs of the world they better listen up.

This is not a divisive campaign, but rather, an open and fair way of tabling issues that matter to all Zambians. Take for instance;

"Sources within the NEC disclosed that Luapula Province MMD chairman Kennedy Sakeni had been the first to reprimand pastor Mumba and warned him that Luapula Province was a no-go zone for him."

I'm afraid to disappoint Kennedy Sakeni, he does not own Luapula province, the quicker he realises this the better for all Zambians. We are in a democracy and free to move as we wish. Kennedy Sakeni is old hat, move over.

"In an interview on Wednesday, Mwaanga wondered why pastor Mumba had resorted to using the press to air his concerns on party matters instead of following the right party channels."

Oh! forgive me for being ignorant, Mwaanga is not using the press to express his insecurity about Nevers Mumba's campaign. Really, how rich of him?

Mwaanga adds on...

'As a senior member of the party, I don't expect him to be informing the party through the press. If he has made those discoveries, why didn't he inform us or why didn't he wait for the national executive committee (NEC) meeting which will be held tomorrow (yesterday) at 10:00 hours?' Mwaanga said.
'Yes we must campaign, but we should do it in a disciplined way. If we don't do this, we are going to introduce anarchy in the party.'

Mwaanga should note that Nevers Mumba will not go to the press, websites or bloggers if the senior party members were listening. You cannot silence a credible voice purely because it challenges your old fashioned manners.

At last there is some sense, I think. We wanted democracy and, let's face it, unless we can cope with the responsibilities that comes with it we are toast. Shutting up people will not do.

Listen up everyone! We are watching you, the whole world is watching you...

Don't do anything stupid!!!!

Nonde Speaks for Nevers

2005-03-29T11:57:00.000-08:00

"IT is old-fashioned and primitive to threaten to bar anybody wishing to stand for a position they aspire, Federation for Free Trade Unions of Zambia president Joyce Nonde warned has warned.

Nonde has said former vice-president Nevers Mumba should be allowed to stand as a candidate for the position he seeks at the MMD convention in May.

'We are very happy that Nevers has decided to stand,' she said."

The Zambia We all dream of!

2005-03-29T04:35:00.000-08:00

The Zambia We all dream of! has an interesting post about why Nevers Mumba is the best presidential candidate.

MMD Convention Update

2005-03-24T12:45:00.000-08:00

The Mumba for President Campaign Team have responded to the Times of Zambia article, "MMD Convention: a Boiling Moment".
The Response to Times of Zambia article provides clarification to issues raised in that article.

MMD Convention

2005-03-24T09:10:00.000-08:00

The Times of Zambia has an insightful analysis on the forthcoming MMD Convention. The article highlights some of the issues the MMD delegates will be considering as they cast their votes for a new MMD party president.

Online politicking receives temporary reprieve

2005-03-24T05:42:00.000-08:00

CNET News.com reports on US Online politicking's temporary reprieve:

"Political bloggers would continue to be exempt from most campaign finance laws, according to highly anticipated rules that federal regulators released Wednesday.

The Federal Election Commission also proposed that online-only news outlets and that even individual bloggers should be treated as legitimate journalists and immune from laws that could count their political endorsements as campaign contributions. "

I have been trying get more information on this issue in the Zambian context. If you have any relevant information relating to this topic, feel free to share it.

Political Influence of the Blogosphere

2005-03-24T05:05:00.000-08:00

BlogPulse Highlights the Political Influence of the Blogosphere. This is a very interesting, technically detailed analysis of the interactions of blogs during the recent US election cycle.

Mwila Advises Nevers

2005-03-23T13:16:00.000-08:00

The Post Online reports that the ZAMBIA Republican Party (ZRP) president Ben Mwila has advised MMD aspiring presidential candidate Nevers Mumba not to cower at the MMD convention in May this year.

Mwila added that when he disclosed his intentions to challenge former president Frederick Chiluba for the MMD presidency in 2001, he was expelled from the party.

Mumba for President Campaign Team

2005-03-23T12:54:00.000-08:00

The following statement is from the Mumba For President Campaign Team.

"We would like to emphasize that he is an inspiration to Zambia's youth and his challenge and candidacy for the party presidency is a model and inspiration to Zambia's youth. We sometimes make the mistake of thinking of our political leaders as 'gods' who can work miracles. Dr. Mumba has said publicly that he has made mistakes...he is a human being. However, he has the skills to build consensus to bring about the right solution. He is not an opportunist. He cares deeply about the future of Zambia and that is what motivates him to say, 'Enough is enough. If I don't step into the ring, I may wake up one morning and wonder why I did not say anything.' He trully represents the future of Zambia. His pastoral credentials are not an impediment but an asset because he is a man people respect and trust and someone that can appeal across all barriers. He deserves our support.

Secondly, he is very interested in including all Zambians wherever they may be in the world. Though Zambia does not have absentee ballots, Dr. Mumba wants Zambians in every corner of the world to be a part of the democratic process in Zambia through his campaign. He is the first presidential candidate in Zambian history to utilize the internet to state his case. That shows forward thinking and the kind of person we want leading Zambia. It is a sign of things to come--where Zambia will be connected globally and move to the forefront.

Thank you for contacting us and supporting Dr. Mumba's campaign.

Joshua Ngoma/Victor Chanda
Mumba for President Campaign Team"

ZambiaSossa Discussion

2005-03-23T09:29:00.000-08:00

The unmoderated forum ZambiaSossa has an interesting discussion string relating to Dr. Mumba's decision to challenge the current Zambian president, Levy Mwanawasa.

Nevers Mumba For President

2005-03-23T08:47:00.000-08:00

"I believe in Zambia. I also believe in the Zambian people. We have what it takes to move our country out of this valley of poverty and despair. History encourages us with nations that had sunk and yet through a unified resolve, ended up on top...There is hope for Zambia. Hope for us to transform ourselves into a prosperous nation."

Dr. Nevers Mumba