In Zambia, two men have been convicted for allegedly plotting to use witchcraft to kill President Hakainde Hichilema. The case has drawn attention to the complex intersection of traditional beliefs, politics, and colonial-era laws in the country, sparking debates both locally and internationally.
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What Happened? Witchcraft Plot Uncovered
The incident came to light in December 2024, when Leonard Firi, a village head, and Justice Mabulase Candunde, a Mozambican citizen, were arrested following a report from a local cleaner. The cleaner claimed to hear strange noises coming from Firi’s home.
Upon investigation, authorities discovered ritual objects, including a live chameleon, animal parts, and an unidentified white powder. These items were believed to be part of occult practices aimed at harming the President.
Magistrate Fine Meembu confirmed the charges, stating that both men had conspired to kill President Hichilema using witchcraft. He described them as enemies of the state and sentenced them to two years of hard labor under colonial-era laws that criminalize witchcraft-related activities.
Who Are the Guilty Men?
- Leonard Firi: A respected village head in Zambia.
- Justice Mabulase Candunde: A citizen of Mozambique, allegedly involved as part of a conspiracy.
Investigators revealed that the plot may have been orchestrated by the brother of Emmanuel “J” Banda, an opposition member of Parliament currently facing charges of robbery, attempted murder, and evading arrest. The incident underscores how traditional beliefs are sometimes weaponized in political rivalries.
Historical and Cultural Background: Witchcraft and the Law
Zambia, like many countries in sub-Saharan Africa, has a complicated relationship with spiritual and traditional practices. While modern religions and globalization have reduced reliance on such beliefs in some areas, witchcraft and ancestral rituals remain significant in rural communities.
The law used to convict the two men dates back to Zambia’s colonial past under British rule, when witchcraft was criminalized without considering local customs. Cultural scholars argue that such laws misrepresent and stigmatize traditional spiritual practices, treating them as criminal behavior rather than cultural heritage.
The case reflects the government’s increasing focus on suppressing perceived threats and dissent, especially amid ongoing political tensions.
Public and Social Media Reactions: Support and Criticism
The case has sparked a heated debate:
✔ Government supporters have applauded the swift legal action, viewing it as a necessary step to protect national security and uphold the rule of law.
✖ Critics, however, have raised concerns over human rights violations, arguing that using colonial-era laws to control spiritual practices infringes on religious freedom.
Ganakhanani Moyo, a cultural heritage lecturer at the University of Zambia, expressed concern:
“Traditional beliefs like witchcraft should be understood, not criminalized. The law reflects a lack of cultural awareness and fosters discrimination.”
The case has also raised broader fears about freedom of speech, as some believe that the government is using such laws to silence critics and political opponents.
Official Statement and What’s Next?
The Zambian government has defended its actions, stating that the law protects citizens and public officials from harmful practices. President Hichilema himself denied having any personal belief in witchcraft but emphasized the need to uphold national security.
Meanwhile, Human Rights Watch criticized the government, accusing it of suppressing dissent and harassing journalists and political rivals. Experts are calling for reforms in Zambia’s legal system to better align with modern human rights standards and respect for cultural diversity.
The controversy surrounding Edgar Lungu’s funeral—the former president who passed away in South Africa—also reflects a strained political climate. Allegations of witchcraft and manipulation have fueled disputes over his funeral arrangements, further polarizing public opinion.
Conclusion: A Struggle Between Tradition, Politics, and Law
The conviction of Leonard Firi and Justice Mabulase Candunde has opened a broader conversation about Zambia’s struggle to balance traditional beliefs with contemporary governance and human rights. While the government views such plots as threats to national security, critics warn that outdated laws risk deepening mistrust and alienating communities.
As the case unfolds, Zambia faces a critical decision: reform colonial-era laws to respect cultural practices or risk perpetuating cycles of fear, repression, and political rivalry.