Zambian authorities have arrested two men accused of attempting to use witchcraft to harm President Hakainde Hichilema.
The suspects, identified as Jasten Mabulesse Candunde and Leonard Phiri, were apprehended in the capital, Lusaka, according to a police statement released on Friday.
The police allege that the men were hired by Nelson Banda, the younger brother of Independent Member of Parliament Emmanuel “Jay Jay” Banda. Nelson Banda is currently on the run, while his brother Emmanuel was reportedly arrested in Zimbabwe last month over robbery charges, which he denies.
He is also accused of escaping custody in August before a scheduled court appearance.
The suspects were allegedly promised over 2 million Zambian kwacha (£58,000; $73,000) to carry out their mission. Police revealed that the duo was found in possession of various charms, including a live chameleon, and have been charged under Zambia’s Witchcraft Act with “possession of charms,” “professing knowledge of witchcraft,” and “cruelty to wild animals.”
Witchcraft remains a deeply rooted belief in Zambia, with many living in fear of its perceived powers.
The suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to appear in court soon, although no date has been announced. Neither man has publicly commented on the allegations.
