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The Legal Pundit, Lusaka (2026)

24/01/2026

🚨 ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS: Is your Business Name still legally yours? 🇿🇲
By Namukolo Muyamwa Jr.

Many entrepreneurs in Zambia think that once they get that Certificate of Registration, they are set for life.

Wrong! ❌

If you registered a Business Name (Sole Proprietorship or Partnership), you are legally required to file Annual Returns every single year.

What happens if you don't file annual returns?

1. Deregistration:
PACRA can "strike off" your business name from the official register.

2. Loss of Name:
Once struck off, your business name becomes "available" again. Someone else can register it and start using the brand you worked so hard to build! 😱

3. Banking Issues:
Banks periodically check PACRA status. If your business is "Inactive" or "Struck Off," they can freeze your business account or reject loan applications.

4. ZRA/NAPSA Compliance:
You won't be able to get a Tax Clearance Certificate if your PACRA status isn't "In Good Standing."

What To Do?

📅 When to file:
Within 3 months of your financial year-end (or on the anniversary of your registration).

💰 The Cost:
For a Business Name, it is currently K111.20 (much cheaper than losing your business!).

💻 How to do it:
You can do this entirely online via the **PACRA Portal**. No need to stand in long queues!

The Legal Pundit's Tip:
- Check your status today!
- Go to the PACRA website and use the "Search" tool to see if your business is still listed as "In Good Standing."
- Don't wait until you lose a big contract or a bank loan to find out your business "doesn't exist" anymore. 📑🛡️

18/01/2026

🏠 THINKING OF RENTING? Here’s the truth about Agent Fees in Zambia!
by Namukolo Muyamwa Jr.

Searching for a house can be stressful, but don’t let "briefcase agents" take advantage of you. Many people pay fees that are actually against the law or the professional standards of real estate agents in Zambia. 🛑

Here is what you need to know

1. Viewing Fees 🕵️‍♂️
Under Section 15 of the Rent Act, agents and landlords are prohibited from charging "premiums" or hidden fees just to let you see a house. While many freelance agents ask for K50–K100 for "transport," the Zambia Institute of Estate Agents (ZIEA) has officially advised against paying viewing fees to curb scams.

2. Who Pays the Commission? 💸
In a professional setup, the Landlord usually pays the agent’s commission (typically one month's rent) because the agent is working to find a tenant for their property. However, in Zambia, it's common for agents to demand a "commission" from the tenant too. Always clarify this before you start the search with such an agent!

3. The "2-Month" Rule 📜
Did you know that under Section 10 of the Rent Act, it is technically illegal for a landlord to demand more than two months’ rent in advance? While many ask for 3, 6, or even 12 months, knowing this gives you better ground to negotiate.

4. Spotting a "Briefcase Agent" 💼
Legally, anyone practicing as an estate agent must be registered with ZIEA (under the Estate Agents Act No. 21 of 2000).

-Ask for their ZIEA Card: If they don't have one, they aren't regulated.
-No Receipt, No Pay: Never pay money via mobile money without a physical or digital receipt that includes their office address.

The Legal Pundit's tip:
If an agent tells you a house is "fast-moving" and asks for a deposit before you’ve met the owner or seen the title deeds.

RUN!!!! 🏃💨

Know your rights and save your hard-earned money! 🇿🇲

14/01/2026

⚖️ Yo Maps, RTSA, and the "Cost" of a Celebration🏆

We all love seeing Zambian stars win big on the international stage! But I couldn't help but notice the recent buzz surrounding Yo Maps Yoand Ask RTSA. It's a classic example of where celebration meets regulation.

While we celebrate the AFRIMA win, the law remains a "sober" reminder of our responsibilities. RTSA is reportedly looking into the celebration videos under the Road Traffic Act.

Under Section 180 of the Road Traffic Act, there are strict rules for a reason:
• ❌ No "Roof-Riding": Occupying the roof or the "running board" of a moving vehicle is a major safety violation.
• ❌ Body Protrusion: Having body parts sticking out of windows or sunroofs while the car is in motion is prohibited.
• ❌ Strict Liability: In law, "I was happy" usually isn't a legal defense. Offenses on the road are often strict liability offenses where the focus is on the act itself, not the intention.

Why does it matter?
It may sound like Ask RTSAmay be spoiling the fun, however it’s actually about preventing avoidable tragedies. If a star does it, a fan might copy it. If that star/fan falls, the celebration turns into a funeral in seconds. 🛑

The Legal Pundit’s Take:
The law is a shield for the public. Whether you're a "GOAT" or a regular citizen, the road rules apply to everyone equally. It’s a reminder that we can celebrate our wins while still keeping ourselves inside the car!

Legal Pundit family, what do you think? Was RTSA right to step in publicly, or should they have handled it quietly? Let’s debate in the comments! 👇⚖️
#

14/01/2026

⚖️Can a 10-year-old be a "Criminal" in Zambia? 🇿🇲

As a young child, did you ever ask yourself: "At what age can I actually get arrested and charged for a crime?" After your parent would threaten you that they will call the police for you as you were misbehaving in the house.

Well, there was a major shift in our laws that every parent, teacher, and citizen should know!

The "12-Year-old" Law🚫
For a long time, the age of criminal liability in Zambia was just 8 years old. However, in 2022, under the Penal Code (Amendment) Act No. 13 of 2022, the age was raised to 12.

What does this mean?
A child under 12 is conclusively presumed to be *doli incapax* (incapable of committing a crime). They cannot be charged or brought to a criminal court.

If a child under 12 does something "wrong," they aren't sent to a holding cell. Instead, they are treated as "Children in Need of Care and Protection." The focus is now on rehabilitation and social welfare, not punishment.

What about those aged 12 to 18?
They can be held responsible, but they are protected by the Juvenile Justice System, which protections such as:
✅ No death penalty for children.
✅ No life imprisonment.
✅ The "Best Interest of the Child" must always come first.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Do you think 12 is the right age, or should it be higher? Let’s discuss in the comments! 👇⚖️

13/01/2026

🇿🇲 THE WORLD IS WATCHING: WHY HH IS #5? 🌍

President Hakainde Hichilema has been named one of the Top 5 World Leaders of 2025 by the UK’s The Telegraph. This isn’t just a ranking; it’s a global endorsement of Zambia's trajectory from an economic "basket case" into a model of reform. What has helped us achieved this?

The 3 main pillars involved:

1. The Debt Restructure📉
By restructuring 92% of Zambia’s external debt under the G20 Common Framework, the government freed up billions. Instead of just paying interest, that money is now staying right here in Zambia to fund clinics and schools.

2. The Mining Revolution ⛏️
Through the Minerals Regulation Commission Act and resolving long-standing legal disputes at KCM and Mopani, the government has unlocked potential new investments. With copper production projected to hit 1 million tons by 2026, Zambia is reclaiming its crown as a mining giant.

3. Radical Decentralization (CDF) 🏘️
By increasing the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) from a tiny K1.6 million to over K30 million per constituency, the government is ensuring that local people decide their own development.

With growth forecast at 6.4% for 2026 from 5.8% in 2025, the world is acknowledging what we are building together: A stable, prosperous, and respected Zambia! 🚀🇿🇲🏆

📣Which policies has made the biggest impact in your community or your life?
Drop a comment below and like as well as share the post. Let’s discuss the future of our great nation! 👇

08/01/2026

📱 The 2026 Budget: What’s Happening to Your Mobile Money?

Have you noticed a difference when sending money this month? As part of the 2026 National Budget, the Government has adjusted the Mobile Money Levy.

1. What is the Mobile Money Levy?
It is a small tax charged on the sender of a mobile money transfer. It was introduced to help the Government raise revenue for public services such as health and education.

2. What has changed in 2026?
The rates have been "stepped up" depending on how much you send:
• Small Transfers (K1 – K150): The levy has doubled from K0.16 to K0.32.
• Medium Transfers (K300 – K500): The levy has increased to K0.80 from K0.40.
• Large Transfers (K5,000 – K10,000): The levy has had a big jump to K8.00 from K3.00.

3. Why does this matter to you?
Under the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) guidelines and the Mobile Money Transaction Levy (Amendment) Act of 2025 that shall be read as one with the Mobile Money Transaction Levy Act of 2024, these changes are now legally binding. While a few ngwee might seem small, they add up!

⚖️ The Pundit’s Insight:
The law is a balancing act. The Government uses these levies to fund the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and Free Education, but as a citizen, knowing exactly what you are being charged helps you manage your personal pocket!

What do you think about these new rates? Are they fair for the services we get back? Let’s discuss in the comments! 👇And don't forget to LIKE and SHARE.

04/01/2026

DID YOU KNOW THAT CROSSING THE ROAD COULD BE “EXPENSIVE”? 🎧🚦

🛑Your headphones could cost you more than just a song🙆‍♂️
We all enjoy listening to Drake while walking or have to make that quick phone call for that ka bineh with our mates, but under Zambia’s Road Safety Rules, crossing a public road while distracted (headphones in, phone to your ear) is now a punishable offence.

Under Statutory Instrument (SI) No. 76 of 2022 (The Road Traffic - Rules of the Road Regulations), the law is very clear:
"A pedestrian shall not cross a public road while wearing headphones or earphones or talking on a mobile phone."
If you are caught, you are liable to a fine of up to 1,000 penalty units, which currently equals K300.

Note: It’s not just phones. The law specifically mentions earphones and headphones. Even if you aren't talking, if they are on your ears while you cross, you are breaking the law.

RATIONALE (WHY?)
RTSA introduced this to reduce "Distracted Walking." With the rise in road accidents (2163 recorded road related deaths in 2021), the goal is to ensure pedestrians are fully aware of oncoming traffic and sirens.

ADVICE:
Stay safe and keep your ears open until you’re on the other side. If you see a RTSA officer or Police, don't just pull the earphones to your neck, make sure they are put away before you step off the pavement.

Is this law fair? Is it great way to reduce the accident rates in Zambia? Don't forget to SHARE and LIKE and let me hear your thoughts in the comments! 👇

03/01/2026

MYTH❌V TRUTH✅

🗣️ Myth: A contract must only be written to be valid.
✅ Truth: In Zambia, oral contracts can be valid if they meet the legal requirements of a contract. This means that there must be:
• An offer and acceptance
• Consideration (something of value exchanged)
• Intention to create legal relations
• Parties with capacity to contract

🔎 RATIONALE (Why this matters):
• An informal agreement or spoken agreement can be legally binding if the elements above are present.
• However, written contracts are stronger because they provide clear evidence in case of disputes.
• Without valid proof, oral contracts can be harder to enforce in court.

👉ADVICE:
Protect yourself- Contracts don’t always need to be in writing to be valid, but documentation is the best form of protection.

💬 LIKE and SHARE this post to spread awareness

01/01/2026

Welcome to The Legal Pundit – Law Made Simple! ⚖️
My name is Namukolo Muyamwa Jr (The Legal Pundit), an emerging legal scholar passionate about making the law accessible to everyone.

Too often, the law feels like a world of complex jargon. My vision is straightforward, to simplify the legal landscape in Zambia. I aim to make the laws that govern our lives, understandable, actionable, and within reach for every citizen.

What you can expect from this page:
• Legislation: Breaking down key Acts of Parliament in Zambia.
• Legal Principles: Explaining the "why" behind the rules.
• Your Rights: Clarifying your fundamental protections in plain English.
• Practical Insights: Concepts you can actually use in everyday life.

Justice begins with understanding. Follow this page and share it with your friends—let’s build a more legally empowered Zambia together.

The Legal Pundit

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