Witchcraft Trial in Zambia Sparks Interest and Debate

In the heart of southern Africa, a unique trial has captured the attention of the nation. Two men are currently on trial in Zambia, accused of practicing witchcraft and possessing charms allegedly intended to harm President Hakainde Hichilema. This case has ignited widespread curiosity, reflecting the enduring belief in magic and supernatural phenomena in parts of the region. It also highlights the controversy surrounding Zambia’s colonial-era Witchcraft Act, which criminalizes practices it fails to understand. The trial has become a focal point for discussions about tradition, law, and the complexities of cultural beliefs in a modern society.

The Intersection of Tradition and Law

The Witchcraft Act, passed in 1914 during British colonial rule, defines witchcraft as the pretense of supernatural power intended to cause fear, harm, or annoyance. Critics argue that the law simplifies and criminalizes practices rooted in traditional African beliefs, which are deeply intertwined with the daily lives of many Zambians. Gankhanani Moyo, a cultural heritage lecturer at the University of Zambia, criticizes the law for disregarding the nuances of these beliefs. “I hate that colonial piece of legislation that attempts to outlaw a practice that it does not understand,” he said. For many Zambians, the spiritual and human worlds are closely connected, making witchcraft a part of their cultural identity.

Political Intrigue and Public Fascination

Beyond its cultural significance, the trial carries a layer of political intrigue. Prosecutors claim the two men were hired by a brother of Emmanuel Banda, a former lawmaker now on the run, to place a curse on President Hichilema. While some dismiss the case as a political stunt to discredit opponents ahead of next year’s election, others view it as a serious matter. The president himself has not commented on the case, but it has sparked debates about the role of witchcraft in public life.

The trial has also raised questions about the admissibility of evidence and the credibility of witnesses. A column in the Lusaka Times mocked the idea of “witch doctors” testifying as expert witnesses, but others argue that the beliefs of many Zambians should be taken seriously. Journalist Enoch Ngoma, who has covered numerous witchcraft trials over the past three decades, notes that the case has drawn significant attention because “many Zambians take witchcraft seriously.”

The Role of Traditional Beliefs in Modern Zambia

Zambia is a predominantly Christian nation, but traditional beliefs have persisted alongside religious practices. A 2018 study by the Zambia Law Development Commission found that 79% of Zambians believe in the existence of witchcraft. This duality is evident in the ever-growing demand for services from traditional healers, who offer charms, spells, and protections against supernatural harm. Rodwell Vongo, a prominent traditional healer and president of the Zambian Traditional Healers Association, rejects the term “witch doctor” as derogatory. He operates a thriving practice in an upscale Lusaka suburb, catering to a diverse clientele, including middle-class professionals seeking happy marriages or protection from curses.

The Challenges of Prosecuting Witchcraft

Prosecuting witchcraft cases in Zambia is fraught with challenges. Evidence is often difficult to collect, and cases rarely make it to the formal court system. Most are dealt with in traditional courts, where community leaders mediate and resolve disputes. This trial, however, has reached the magistrates court in Lusaka, marking a rare instance of such a case being handled in the formal legal system. If convicted, the men face fines, up to two years in jail, or hard labor.

A Nation Divided: Reactions and Reflections

The trial has divided public opinion. Some, like teacher Wisdom Kaunda, who is closely following the case, believe that individuals should be punished for plotting harm, even if witchcraft is involved. “It is so difficult to prove witchcraft in the courts of law,” he admitted, highlighting the legal complexities. Others question the relevance of the Witchcraft Act, arguing that it perpetuates colonial attitudes toward traditional practices. The case has also reignited calls for law reform to better align Zambian legislation with the cultural realities of its people.

As the trial progresses, it serves as a mirror reflecting Zambia’s struggles with tradition, modernity, and justice. Whether the case will set a precedent for how the nation addresses witchcraft remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the debate over witchcraft in Zambia is far from over.