Two Men Convicted of Witchcraft Plot to Assassinate Zambia's President
In a bizarre case, two men have been convicted in Zambia of plotting to use witchcraft to kill President Hakainde Hichilema. The conviction has raised concerns about the president's handling of opposition, with Human Rights Watch accusing him of exhibiting authoritarian tendencies last year.
According to court documents, 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 said they discovered a cache of traditional medicine and ritual items, which they believed were intended for use in the alleged plot.
The two men were sentenced to two years in prison for their role in the alleged plot, which was reportedly orchestrated by a relative of an opposition MP facing trial on separate charges. The conviction highlights growing concerns about President Hichilema's handling of opposition, with Human Rights Watch accusing him of suppressing political dissent and exhibiting authoritarian tendencies last year.
In a statement, Human Rights Watch said: "The use of witchcraft as a means to silence opponents is a disturbing trend in Zambia." According to the organization, there have been several cases of people being accused of witchcraft and subsequently arrested or intimidated by authorities.
President Hichilema's office has not commented on the conviction, but sources close to the president say that he is aware of the growing criticism and is taking steps to address it. "The president is committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all citizens," said a spokesperson for the president's office.
The case has sparked debate about the role of traditional medicine and witchcraft in modern society, with some experts arguing that it highlights the need for greater education and awareness about these practices. "This case is a reminder that traditional medicine and witchcraft can be used for both good and ill," said Dr. Jane Thompson, an expert on African cultures. "It's essential to approach these issues with sensitivity and understanding."
The two men are expected to appeal their conviction, but in the meantime, they will begin serving their two-year prison sentences. The case has raised questions about the president's handling of opposition and the use of traditional medicine and witchcraft in modern society.
In related news, President Hichilema is facing growing criticism for suppressing political opposition, with several opposition MPs facing trial on separate charges. The president's office has not commented on these allegations, but sources close to the president say that he is aware of the growing criticism and is taking steps to address it.
The case highlights the complexities of Zambia's justice system and the challenges faced by President Hichilema in balancing his commitment to upholding the rule of law with the need to protect the rights of all citizens. As one observer noted, "This case is a reminder that the line between politics and justice can be blurry at times."
This story was compiled from reports by The Guardian and The Guardian.
