News Digest - Wednesday, July 23rd, 2025

Today’s news highlights a complex landscape of political tensions, economic concerns, infrastructure developments, and ongoing legal and social issues across Zambia. The rising political tensions and efforts to maintain law and order dominate the headlines, alongside critical discussions on financial integrity, land rights, and public service accountability. Economic challenges remain a concern, with investigations revealing illicit flows and potential impacts on investor confidence, while infrastructure projects show signs of progress. These stories collectively reflect Zambia’s ongoing efforts to stabilize its political environment, strengthen governance, and foster sustainable development.

Main Stories

1. Police to Summon Robert Chabinga Over Threats Against Emmanuel Mwamba and Sishuwa Sishuwa
   The Zambia Police are investigating acting PF faction president Robert Chabinga for allegedly threatening opposition figures Emmanuel Mwamba and Dr. Sishuwa Sishuwa. This incident underscores rising political tensions and the government’s focus on curbing violence and intimidation in public discourse. The police’s swift action signals an attempt to maintain peace amid deepening party divisions and political polarization.

2. FIC Report Reveals $3.5 Billion in Suspected Illicit Transactions in 2024
   The Financial Intelligence Centre’s 2024 Trends Report identified a staggering $3.5 billion in suspected illicit financial flows, mainly linked to multinational corporate activities. The report indicates a shift towards more sophisticated financial crimes involving foreign entities, raising concerns about the integrity of Zambia’s financial system. While public sector corruption appears to decline, the rising illicit flows demand enhanced oversight and anti-money laundering measures.

3. ZAMMSA Audit Sparks Investor Confidence Concerns
   An audit report exposing irregularities in drug procurement by Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) threatens to undermine investor confidence in Zambia’s health sector. Economists warn that the scandal may lead to short-term withdrawal of investments and create a cautious climate for long-term stakeholders, potentially affecting healthcare delivery and public health outcomes.

4. Civil Society Demands Withdrawal of Lands and Deeds Registry Bill
   A coalition of civil society organizations is calling for the government to scrap proposed amendments to the Lands and Deeds Registry Bill. They argue the changes would weaken land tenure security by granting excessive discretionary powers that could lead to political interference and land disputes. The controversy highlights ongoing concerns about land governance and the protection of property rights amidst fears of judicial weakening.

5. Infrastructural Progress in Lusaka: Minister Sialubalo Praises Road Works
   Minister of Local Government Gift Sialubalo expressed satisfaction with the ongoing township road construction projects in Lusaka, financed with K1.8 billion. The developments aim to improve urban mobility and economic activity, emphasizing government efforts to upgrade infrastructure and enhance residents’ quality of life. The project’s progress signals a focus on urban development amid Zambia’s broader economic recovery efforts.

6. Legal and Political Cases Continue: Court Acquits Actor on Sexual Assault Charges
   Leo Simukoko, a local actor, was acquitted of sexual assault charges due to lack of sufficient corroborative evidence. The ruling underscores the importance of robust evidence in sexual offense cases, balancing the pursuit of justice with protecting the rights of the accused. It also highlights the challenges faced by victims in proving such cases.

7. Court Proceedings in Corruption and Public Service Cases

• A key witness in the corruption trial of Livingstone Mayor Constance Nalishebo Muleabai testified that she did not receive K180,000 from the mayor, challenging the prosecution’s allegations.
• A woman operating a pharmacy without a permit is currently in court, reflecting ongoing efforts to regulate health services and ensure compliance.

Brief Updates

• Political Tensions and Legal Actions: The police investigation into Robert Chabinga’s threats continues amid heightened political tensions. Meanwhile, LAZ (Law Association of Zambia) has sought a stay on proceedings related to Bill 7, indicating ongoing legal debates over parliamentary reforms.
• Economic and Social Developments: The Betway Aviator Legends tournament crowned Joseph Zimba as the winner, with a K950,000 prize, boosting local interest in digital gaming. CSOs are protesting against the Lands and Deeds Registry Bill, fearing land rights could be compromised.
• Public Service and Governance: Nason Banda of DEC defends the agency’s effectiveness in fighting crime despite criticism from CAAC. The Lusaka road works and ongoing infrastructure projects demonstrate government commitment to urban development.

Closing Reflection

Today’s headlines reveal Zambia at a crossroads—facing political tensions, economic scrutiny, and the challenge of strengthening governance and public trust. The government’s focus on infrastructure and law enforcement shows a push towards stability, but concerns over corruption, land rights, and financial integrity remain pressing. Readers should watch for further developments in political discourse, legal proceedings, and efforts to restore investor confidence and public confidence in governance.