TWO witch doctors accused of trying to harm President Hakainde Hichilema using charms have been found with a case to answer and put on defence.
The duo, Leonard Phiri 43 of Sinda Eastern Province, and Jasten Candunde, 42, from Maravia, Mozambique, are charged with professing knowledge of witchcraft and possessing charms before the Lusaka Magistrates’ Court.
Phiri and Candunde have been charged pursuant to section 5 and section 11(2) of the Witchcraft Act Chapter 90 of the Zambian laws, which they are accused of contravening.
The two accused persons denied the charges.
It is alleged that the accused persons were found with various charms, including a live chameleon and engaged in supernatural practices with intentions to harm President Hichilema.
Further allegations are that the two suspects were hired by Emmanuel Jay Jay Banda through his young brother Nelson Banda.
When the matter came up for ruling on a case to answer yesterday, resident magistrate, Fine Mayambu ruled that a prima facie case had been established against them to make their defence.
Magistrate Mayambu said when the prosecution evidence is discredited in cross examination the court ought to acquit, but in this case, their evidence through ten witnesses presented before court proved the case beyond reasonable doubt.
He said according to section 5 and section 11(2) of the Witchcraft Act Chapter 90 of the Zambian laws, if a person is found guilty of professing knowledge of witchcraft, they are likely to pay 1,500 penalty units or to a sentence not exceeding two years, and when found guilty of possessing charms, one is likely to pay not less than 100 penalty units or imprisonment not exceeding six months or both.
“In this case after analysing the evidence, a prima facie case has been established against the accused persons, I found the two with a case to answer in both counts and have been put on defence,” ruled magistrate Mayambu.
The defence lawyer, Agrippa Malando from the Legal Aid Board said their clients will take sworn evidence and will not call witnesses.
The court has since adjourned to tomorrow for commencement of defence.
By Lucy Phiri
Kalemba August 6, 2025
