On Trial in Zambia: Witchcraft

Two men are on trial in Zambia for alleged witchcraft. They are accused of possessing charms to harm President Hakainde Hichilema. Emmanuel Banda, a former lawmaker, allegedly hired them and is currently on the run. The trial reflects beliefs in supernatural phenomena in Zambia. Gankhanani Moyo, a cultural heritage lecturer, said: "I hate that colonial piece of legislation that attempts to outlaw a practice that it does not understand." He opposes the current witchcraft law as outdated. The trial began after a December arrest in Lusaka. The men were found with a chameleon, a mysterious powder, a red cloth, and an animal tail. They confessed to being hired for a curse with a promise of over $1 million.

Many Zambians, 79% as of a 2018 study, believe in witchcraft. Journalist Enoch Ngoma highlights the case's significance due to these beliefs. The Witchcraft Act from 1914 criminalizes it, with penalties of fines or up to two years in jail. A packed courtroom marked the opening of the trial last week. The trial was initially set for live broadcast but that was canceled. Rodwell Vongo, a traditional healer, criticizes the term "witch doctor." Wisdom Kaunda, a teacher, said: "It is so difficult to prove witchcraft in the courts of law." He sees the trial as pivotal for future legal treatment. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)