Judge Violet Chipao of the High Court’s Financial Crimes Division in Lilongwe on Monday postponed a case involving businessman Leston Mulli, former secretary to the President and Cabinet Lloyd Muhara, and former secretary to treasury Cliff Chiunda,who are accused of K5 billion alleged fraud during the disposal of the Malawi Savings Bank (MSB).
On the day,the case was set to hear an application from the defense to refer the matter to the constitutional court.
However, Defense Lawyer Kalekeni Kaphale, who recently joined the case, requested more time to review the case files before proceeding.
Mulli
On the other hand,the state, represented by Director of Public Prosecutions(DPP) Masauko Chamkakala, opposed the application, arguing that the accused already had representation and there was no need to restart the process.
Meanwhile,the court will reconvene on January 28, 2025, to hear the application and determine whether to refer the case to the constitutional court.
Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda has urged people in the country to get vaccinated against the cholera pandemic to prevent its spread.
Chiponda made the plea on Monday during the launch of the Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV) and the opening of the Kwitanda Martitiny Wing in Balaka District.
The minister stressed that vaccination is crucial in controlling the spread of cholera, which has affected 282 people and claimed 14 lives in five districts since September 2024.
Khumbize Chiponda
In her remarks, World Health Organization (WHO) Expanded Program on Immunization Lead,Dr. Aisi Akoso, assured that the organization will continue supporting Malawi in providing quality healthcare.
Sub-Traditional Authority Mpilisi of Balaka District pledged the community’s support in encouraging people to get vaccinated.
Cholera is a bacterial disease usually spread through contaminated water.
The disease causes severe diarrhea and dehydration.
If left untreated, cholera can be fatal within hours, even in previously healthy people.
Leaders of football in the Northern Region have pledged to enforce strict regulations to ensure that only eligible players participate in the Mzuzu FAM Under-21 League. The General Secretary of the Northern Region Football Association (NRFA), Masiya Nyasulu, made this declaration during the league’s final match held in Luwinga, where Hilltop Socials faced Soweto FC from Kafukule in Mzimba District.
Nyasulu emphasized that the integrity of the competition depends on adhering to age restrictions, as stipulated in the tournament’s rules. He highlighted concerns over some teams fielding over-age players, an issue that undermines the purpose of the league, which is to nurture young talent. “We are determined to ensure that this league remains a platform for genuine youth development,” Nyasulu said. “Strict measures will be taken against any team that violates the age regulations.”
To enforce these measures, the NRFA plans to introduce mandatory vetting processes, including thorough checks on player documentation, such as birth certificates and national IDs. Teams found guilty of including over-age players will face penalties, which may include disqualification from the competition.
Nyasulu also commended the teams that have complied with the rules, saying they are setting an example for others. He urged coaches, team managers, and community leaders to play their part in ensuring fairness and transparency in the league. “This is not just about winning matches; it is about developing the future stars of Malawian football,” he added.
The final match between Hilltop Socials and Soweto FC showcased the talent and potential that the league aims to promote. Fans from Luwinga and Kafukule turned out in large numbers to support their teams, creating an electrifying atmosphere that highlighted the importance of grassroots football in the region.
Football enthusiasts and stakeholders in the Northern Region have welcomed the NRFA’s decision to strengthen the rules, saying it will level the playing field and ensure that young players have an equal opportunity to showcase their abilities.
With the Mzuzu FAM Under-21 League now drawing to a close, Nyasulu reiterated the NRFA’s commitment to working with FAM and other stakeholders to build a robust and transparent system for youth football development. The focus, he said, is on creating a competitive yet fair environment where future stars can emerge and represent Malawi on the national and international stage.
As teams and fans reflect on the successes of this year’s competition, it is clear that the league has provided not only a platform for young talent but also a strong foundation for the future of football in the Northern Region.
In an age dominated by social media, where words often carry the power to inspire or dishearten, Zambian musician Yo Maps continues to stand out as a voice of hope and motivation. Through his official Facebook page, he recently shared a heartfelt message with his followers, urging them to embrace resilience, patience, and self-belief in their journeys.
“You have the power to create the life you want. Stay determined, stay patient, and never stop believing in yourself,” he wrote. These words, though simple, carry a profound depth of wisdom. Yo Maps reminds his audience that the key to success and fulfillment lies in one’s ability to trust the process, even when progress seems slow. “Great things take time,” he emphasizes, underscoring the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges.
Yo Maps
The message did not end there. With a touch of his signature style, Yo Maps added: “Muntu wandi, yalabalansa nombalinefye,” a statement that resonates deeply with his Zambian audience. Translating loosely to “My friend, things are balancing out now,” it reflects his belief that persistence ultimately leads to positive outcomes. This phrase serves as a testament to his personal journey—one marked by struggles, triumphs, and unwavering faith in his dreams.
Yo Maps’ journey in the music industry has not been without its hurdles. From humble beginnings to becoming one of Zambia’s most celebrated artists, his life exemplifies the very message he shared. He has faced criticism, moments of self-doubt, and the slow grind of building a career in a competitive industry. Yet, through it all, he trusted the process, stayed patient, and allowed time to reveal his greatness.
His Facebook post, while motivational, also serves as a subtle reminder of the importance of embracing life’s timing. In a world where instant gratification often dominates, Yo Maps encourages his followers to recognize that meaningful success cannot be rushed. Every step, every setback, and every small victory plays a role in shaping the life one desires.
Fans responded enthusiastically to his message, with many sharing their own stories of resilience and gratitude for the inspiration. Comments flooded in, ranging from words of appreciation to testimonies of how his music and words have positively impacted their lives.
Yo Maps’ ability to connect with his audience on such a personal level is a testament to his authenticity. Beyond his music, he has positioned himself as a role model for young people not just in Zambia, but across the continent. His words remind us all that no matter how difficult the journey may seem, staying determined, patient, and true to oneself is the ultimate key to success.
As he continues to make waves in the music industry, Yo Maps proves that great things indeed take time. For his followers, his message is more than just words—it is a call to action. Trust the process, believe in yourself, and stay committed to your goals. After all, as Yo Maps reminds us, “yalabalansa nombalinefye”—things are falling into place, one step at a time.
In a joyous and emotional moment, three Israeli hostages, Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, and Doron Steinbrecher, have finally returned home after spending 471 days in Hamas captivity. The hostages were released as part of a deal brokered by international partners, including the US, Egypt, and Qatar.
The three hostages were taken by helicopters to Safra Children’s Hospital at the Sheba Medical Center in central Israel, where they will undergo medical treatment and rehabilitation. They were accompanied by their mothers and will meet the rest of their families at the hospital.
The families of the hostages expressed their gratitude and relief at their loved ones’ return. Doron Steinbrecher’s family thanked everyone who supported them during the difficult time, including President Trump, and vowed to continue advocating for the release of all hostages. Emily Damari’s mother thanked those who fought tirelessly for her daughter’s release and called for the release of all remaining hostages.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog welcomed the return of the hostages, saying that the entire nation rejoices at their return. He sent a huge embrace to the hostages and their families, acknowledging the challenging journey of recovery and healing that lies ahead.
The release of the three hostages is the first phase of a deal that aims to secure the release of all hostages held by Hamas. The deal involves the release of Palestinian security prisoners, including those convicted of terrorism and serving life sentences. The international community has welcomed the deal, with US President Joe Biden hailing it as a significant achievement.
The return of the three hostages marks a significant milestone in the efforts to secure the release of all hostages held by Hamas. However, much work remains to be done to ensure the safe return of all hostages and to address the underlying issues that led to their captivity.
As the three hostages begin their journey of recovery and healing, the international community must continue to advocate for the release of all remaining hostages and work towards a lasting solution to the conflict. The return of Romi, Emily, and Doron is a beacon of hope, and their story serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and solidarity in the face of adversity.
