In a story that sounds like it came straight out of a movie, two men have been arrested in Zambia’s capital, Lusaka, for allegedly trying to use witchcraft to harm the country’s President, Hakainde Hichilema.
Police say the suspects, Jasten Mabulesse Candunde, a 42-year-old man from Mozambique, and Leonard Phiri, a 43-year-old village chief, were caught with mysterious items believed to be part of their witchcraft arsenal. Among their “tools” was a live chameleon, which they allegedly planned to use in a ritual to curse the president.
Authorities believe the men were hired for this sinister mission by Nelson Banda, the younger brother of Emmanuel “Jay Jay” Banda, a fugitive member of Zambia’s parliament. The suspects reportedly confessed to police that they were promised a hefty reward of $7,400 if they succeeded.
What Were They Charged With?
The two men are facing multiple charges under Zambia’s Witchcraft Act. These include “possession of charms,” “professing knowledge of witchcraft,” and even “cruelty to wild animals,” because of their use of the live chameleon.
Rae Hamoonga, a police spokesperson, revealed that the men had a clear goal: to use their charms to harm President Hichilema. It’s unclear how they planned to carry out the curse, but the involvement of Banda’s family adds another layer of intrigue to the case.
A Fugitive Connection
Nelson Banda, the man accused of hiring the witch doctors, is the younger brother of Emmanuel Banda, a controversial lawmaker who has been on the run since escaping police custody last year. Emmanuel Banda, also known as “Jay Jay,” was facing charges of aggravated robbery at the time of his escape. Despite his fugitive status, he has remained an independent member of Zambia’s parliament and was once allied with former President Edgar Lungu.
Witchcraft and Politics
This bizarre incident highlights the complex relationship between witchcraft and politics in some parts of Africa, where traditional beliefs sometimes intersect with modern governance. In Zambia, practicing witchcraft is a criminal offense, and the Witchcraft Act is still actively enforced.
While the case has sparked curiosity and debate, it’s also a reminder of how deeply rooted traditional practices can influence political dynamics. For now, the suspects are in custody, and police continue their investigation into what could have been a deadly plot fueled by superstition, politics, and greed.
