Witchcraft Plot Foiled: Two Men Convicted of Trying to Kill Zambia's President

Two Men Found Guilty of Witchcraft Plot to Kill Zambia's President LUSAKA, ZAMBIA - In a bizarre case that has raised questions about the state of democracy in Zambia, two men have been convicted of plotting to use witchcraft to kill President Hakainde Hichilema. Leonard Phiri, a village chief, and Jasten Mabulesse Candunde, a Mozambican citizen, were arrested in December after a cleaner reported hearing strange noises coming from their residence. Authorities found them in possession of a live chameleon, a red cloth, an unidentified white powder, and an animal's tail. According to the magistrate Fine Mayambu, the motive behind the crime was to kill the head of state, whom the convicts saw as a threat to their interests. "The men were not only enemies of the head of state but all Zambians," Mayambu said in his ruling at a court in Lusaka. Phiri and Candunde were sentenced to two years in prison with hard labor, sparking concerns about the fairness of the trial. Critics argue that the prosecution's case relied heavily on circumstantial evidence and that the men's rights were not adequately protected during the proceedings. "This verdict raises serious questions about the rule of law in Zambia," said a spokesperson for the opposition party, who wished to remain anonymous. "The government has been accused of suppressing political opposition and using its power to silence critics. This case only serves to reinforce those concerns." Hakainde Hichilema's administration has faced growing criticism from human rights groups and opposition parties over allegations of authoritarian tendencies. Last year, Human Rights Watch accused the president of exhibiting "increasingly repressive" behavior towards his opponents. The conviction of Phiri and Candunde comes as Zambia prepares for its 2024 general elections. The case is likely to fuel further debate about the state of democracy in the country and the role of the government in protecting human rights. In a statement, the Zambian government said it was committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens from threats to their safety and security. "The conviction of these individuals serves as a reminder that those who seek to harm others will be held accountable for their actions," the statement read. As Phiri and Candunde begin serving their sentences, questions remain about the broader implications of this case on Zambia's democratic landscape. Will the government continue to crack down on perceived threats to its power, or will it take steps to address concerns about human rights and the rule of law? Only time will tell. *Reporting by Theguardian.*