Zambian authorities have arrested two men accused of trying to use witchcraft against President Hakainde Hichilema.
The men, Jasten Mabulesse Candunde and Leonard Phiri, were caught in Lusaka with several charms, including a live chameleon.
Police claim the suspects were hired by Nelson Banda, the younger brother of independent MP Emmanuel “Jay Jay” Banda, to carry out the alleged plan. Nelson, who is currently missing, reportedly promised to pay the men over 2 million Zambian kwacha (£58,000; $73,000).
Emmanuel Banda, a former member of the Patriotic Front (PF) party, has faced several legal problems, including robbery charges in Zimbabwe and accusations of escaping custody. The PF often claims that such charges against its members are politically motivated.
The two suspects are being charged under Zambia’s Witchcraft Act for crimes such as “possession of charms,” “claiming knowledge of witchcraft,” and “cruelty to wild animals.” Police confirmed they found several charms and the live chameleon, commonly linked to traditional practices.
