President of the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB), Archbishop Ignatius Chama, has raised serious concerns over the safety and well-being of Lusaka Archbishop Dr Alick Banda, accusing President Hakainde Hichilema of allegedly using state institutions to persecute and humiliate the cleric.
Speaking on Lutanda Radio in Kasama, Archbishop Chama said the Bishops were deeply troubled by what they described as harassment and persecution of Archbishop Banda.
DEC Summons Spark Outcry
The ZCCB President was commenting on a matter involving a gift that had been given to Archbishop Banda, which he said was returned a long time ago but has now become the subject of criminal investigations.
This led to Archbishop Banda being summoned by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), a move the Bishops believe is politically motivated.
Political Differences Acknowledged
Archbishop Chama acknowledged that political differences exist between President Hichilema and Archbishop Banda but warned that such disagreements must not be allowed to endanger lives.
“We recognise that there are deep-seated political differences between President Hichilema and Archbishop Alick Banda,” he said.
However, he accused the President of creating an environment where he appears to desire the removal of Archbishop Banda, a development he said has negatively affected the entire Church.
Alleged Abuse of State Apparatus
Archbishop Chama alleged that President Hichilema, as Head of State, has access to powerful state institutions that can be used or abused to victimise perceived rivals.
“The environment favours the President who is using state apparatus to victimise, humiliate and persecute Archbishop Banda,” he said, citing events that occurred on 5th January 2025.
Life Under Threat
The ZCCB President expressed deep regret that the situation had now threatened the life of Archbishop Banda.
“This scenario has even threatened his life and become fodder for those plotting against him,” he warned.
He said he feared there was no one close enough to the President to advise him that such actions are harmful to the country.
Life Is Sacred – Chama
Archbishop Chama emphasised the sanctity of life, stating that:
“Life is sacred and cannot be threatened in this manner. Human life is made in the image of God.”
He referenced the biblical story of Abel, whose blood was unjustly shed by Cain out of jealousy, warning against allowing political rivalry to breed hatred and harm.
Call for Dialogue
The Church, he said, had hoped that personal differences would never spill over to harm the faithful under the Archdiocese of Lusaka.
He called for dialogue to resolve the standoff:
“When elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers,” Archbishop Chama said.
Zambian Eye will continue to follow this developing story and bring updates as they unfold.