The Post report former-President Dr Kenneth Kaunda's views on the proposed new tax regime. "I wish the decision was taken yesterday. I am in full support of government's decision. They must implement it now for the good of Zambians."
Meanwhile, still nothing from the big mining companies. Mineweb report that Fred Bantubonse, General Manager of the mining houses business association the Chamber of Mines of Zambia (CMZ), told them: "The President's speech is still being studied by the owners of the companies [the investors]. We are, therefore, unable to offer any comments at the moment."
Mineweb also seems to read the announcement as a prelude to further negotiatoins, rather than a unilateral decision by Government, stating that revised Development Agreements have, "been the subject of renegotiation since late last year but talks are yet to conclude." On that issue a colleague asked me what I think is an important question, and I don't have an answer. For those of us concerned to see the best outcome for Zambian communities and workers from this process, are there risks in ripping up the Development Agreements and imposing a unilateral solution? The agreements contain some commitments on the part of the companies that we would like to see them respect - the Environmental Management Plans for example. Any views folks?
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