Two men in Zambia have been convicted of attempting to use witchcraft to kill President Hakainde Hichilema, an incident that has drawn attention to the complex intersection of traditional beliefs, politics, and colonial-era laws in the country.
What Happened?
Leonard Phiri, a village chief, and Jasten Mabulesse Candunde, a Mozambican citizen, were arrested in December after a cleaner reported hearing strange noises coming from their location. Upon investigation, authorities discovered the men in possession of a live chameleon and several “assorted charms” including a red cloth, an unidentified white powder, and an animal’s tail.
Magistrate Fine Mayambu confirmed that the two men were planning to kill President Hichilema using witchcraft, calling them enemies not only of the head of state but of all Zambians. They were sentenced to two years in prison with hard labour for their actions under a British colonial-era law that criminalizes witchcraft.
Who Are the Convicted Men?
Leonard Phiri is a local village chief in Zambia, while Jasten Mabulesse Candunde is a Mozambican citizen. The two men were reportedly hired by the brother of opposition Member of Parliament Emmanuel “Jay Jay” Banda, who is currently facing trial for robbery, attempted murder, and escaping custody. The motives behind their actions were tied to a plot to use witchcraft to take down the president, highlighting the contentious and often misunderstood role of spiritual beliefs in the country.
Career/Legacy or Background
Zambia, like many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, has a complex relationship with traditional spiritual practices. While modernity and religion have largely shifted cultural practices, witchcraft and spiritual beliefs remain influential in many parts of society. The conviction stems from a long-standing colonial-era law, which criminalizes the practice of witchcraft, an act that has raised concerns from cultural scholars and locals who argue that the law misrepresents their beliefs.
Amid political tension, this event has underscored the growing role of the government in cracking down on perceived threats, including dissent and criticism of President Hichilema’s leadership.
Public/Social Media Reactions
The conviction has sparked widespread debate in Zambia and beyond, with mixed reactions across social media. Supporters of the government have praised the swift legal action taken against the accused, reinforcing the seriousness of the crime. However, many others have criticized the use of outdated laws to govern spiritual practices, citing human rights concerns.
Cultural and human rights advocates, such as Gankhanani Moyo, a cultural heritage lecturer at the University of Zambia, argue that witchcraft and traditional beliefs should not be criminalized, suggesting that this legislation reflects a lack of understanding of the cultural significance of these practices.
Official Statements or What Happens Next
The conviction was made under a law dating back to British colonial rule, and experts believe it highlights the need for reform in Zambia’s legal system regarding traditional beliefs. While President Hichilema has denied any personal belief in witchcraft, tensions continue to rise over his administration’s handling of opposition and free speech.
Human Rights Watch has criticized the government for increasing authoritarian tendencies, accusing it of suppressing dissent and harassing journalists and political opposition. With Hichilema’s government increasingly under scrutiny, this case is only one of many that reflect the administration’s struggle to balance modern governance with deeply ingrained cultural practices.
The dispute over the funeral of Hichilema’s predecessor, Edgar Lungu, who passed away in South Africa in June, also reflects the tense political climate. Legal battles over Lungu’s body and funeral arrangements continue, with accusations of witchcraft circulating as part of the broader political rivalry.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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