The trial of two suspected wizards, Leonard Phiri and Mabulesse Candunde, has begun in the Lusaka Magistrates' Court. The two are accused of being hired to harm President Hakainde Hichilema using sorcery or black magic for an agreed fee of 43 million Kwacha as reported by Lusaka Times.
According to Immigration Officer George Mwale, a key witness in the trial, the accused confessed to police that they were hired by former Petauke Central Member of Parliament Emmanuel Banda, also known as Jay Jay Banda, to carry out the act. Banda allegedly engaged the suspects through his brother, Nelson Banda.
Phiri and Candunde are facing charges of practicing witchcraft and possessing charms, offenses that fall under Section 5 of the Witchcraft Act, Chapter 90 of the Laws of Zambia. The case has attracted significant public attention, with legal experts closely watching the proceedings.
The suspects were found in possession of various charms, including a live chameleon sealed in a bottle, an animal tail, 14 bottles of pounded charms, and a red cloth allegedly used for performing rituals. Police claim that the suspects received an initial payment of 16,500 Kwacha out of an agreed 30,000 Kwacha advance, with a promise of 2 million Kwacha upon completion of the task.
The trial is expected to continue in the coming days as more witnesses take the stand. The case has also raised questions about the involvement of former MP Emmanuel Banda, who is alleged to have masterminded the plot. Banda's whereabouts are currently unknown, and it's unclear whether he will face any charges in connection with the case.
The allegations against Phiri and Candunde are serious, and the trial is being closely watched by many in Zambia and beyond. The case has also sparked conversations about the existence of witchcraft and the laws surrounding it in Zambia. The Witchcraft Act, Chapter 90 of the Laws of Zambia, makes it an offense to practice witchcraft or possess charms.
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