Lusaka, Zambia – The Lusaka Magistrate’s Court has heard shocking testimony in a case where two men stand accused of attempting to use witchcraft against President Hakainde Hichilema in exchange for a substantial payment.
According to testimony presented by an immigration officer, George Mwale, during the ongoing trial, Emmanuel “Jay Jay” Banda allegedly conspired with two individuals, Leonard Phiri, 43, from Sinda District in Eastern Province, and Jasten Candunde, 42, from Mozambique, to harm the Head of State using sorcery or black magic. The agreed fee for the ritual was allegedly set at K43 million.
Mwale told the court that the accused were apprehended while in possession of various charms, which authorities believe were intended for use in the ritual. Among the items recovered were a live chameleon sealed inside a bottle, an animal tail, 14 bottles of pounded charms, and a red cloth suspected to be linked to the alleged rituals.
The case has drawn significant public attention, with legal experts and cultural commentators weighing in on the implications of the Witchcraft Act in modern Zambian law. The Act criminalizes both the practice and accusation of witchcraft, making it illegal to possess charms or claim knowledge of supernatural powers.
As the trial progresses, more details are expected to emerge, shedding light on the extent of the alleged conspiracy and the legal consequences the accused may face. The witness, Mwale, remains on the stand, continuing his testimony before the court.
The case underscores the enduring influence of traditional beliefs in Zambia and raises questions about the legal and cultural interpretations of witchcraft in the country’s justice system.
By Darius Choonya
