Zambian Authorities Arrest Two for Alleged Plot to Bewitch President Hichilema
In a startling development, Zambian police have apprehended two individuals accused of attempting to use witchcraft to harm President Hakainde Hichilema. The suspects, identified as 42-year-old Jasten Mabulesse Candunde and 43-year-old Leonard Phiri, were detained in the capital city, Lusaka.
Alleged Conspiracy and Arrest Details
According to police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, the duo was allegedly commissioned by Nelson Banda, the younger brother of fugitive lawmaker Emmanuel “Jay Jay” Banda, to carry out the malevolent act against the president. The suspects were reportedly promised a payment of over 2 million Zambian kwacha (approximately $73,000) for their mission.
Upon their arrest, authorities discovered an assortment of charms in their possession, including a live chameleon, which is often associated with witchcraft practices in the region. The police statement emphasized that their “purported mission was to use charms to harm” President Hichilema.
Connection to Fugitive Lawmaker
Emmanuel Banda, an independent Member of Parliament since 2021 and formerly linked to ex-President Edgar Lungu’s Patriotic Front (PF) party, has been embroiled in legal troubles. He reportedly escaped from custody in August 2024 while awaiting trial for aggravated robbery charges and was allegedly arrested in Zimbabwe last month, though his current whereabouts remain unknown. The PF party has previously claimed that the charges against Banda are politically motivated.
Legal Implications Under Zambia’s Witchcraft Act
Candunde and Phiri face charges under Zambia’s Witchcraft Act, including “possession of charms,” “professing knowledge of witchcraft,” and “cruelty to wild animals.” Enacted in 1914, the Witchcraft Act imposes penalties on individuals practicing or professing knowledge of witchcraft. For instance, Section 5 stipulates that anyone professing knowledge of witchcraft may face up to two years’ imprisonment.
Cultural Context and Public Perception
Witchcraft beliefs are deeply rooted in many African societies, including Zambia, where a significant portion of the population holds such beliefs. These beliefs often lead to fear and can result in serious legal and social consequences for those accused. The recent arrests highlight the ongoing tension between traditional beliefs and modern legal frameworks in the country.
Next Steps
The suspects are currently in custody and are expected to appear in court soon, though an exact date has not been provided. As the case unfolds, it underscores the complexities of addressing traditional beliefs within the confines of contemporary law and governance.
