Leonard Phiri, 43, from Sinda district of Eastern Province, and Jasten Candunde, 42, from Mozambique, are accused of attempting to cast a spell on President Hakainde Hichilema. The two self-proclaimed witch doctors face charges under Zambia’s Witchcraft Act for possessing charms and professing knowledge of witchcraft.
The duo’s alleged plot was foiled when they were caught by authorities, who found them in possession of various charms, including a live chameleon and a tortoise believed to be tools of their trade. Despite their claims of being certified traditional healers affiliated with the Traditional Health Practitioners Association of Zambia (Thapaz), the accused were denied bail by Magistrate Fines Mayambu on January 20, 2025, due to posing a flight risk.
Phiri had previously attempted to escape custody, prompting the court to keep both men behind bars until trial. Before the trial begins, Phiri has requested medical attention, citing a headache and a cough, while Candunde has asked for a Chewa interpreter.
ALSO READ: Married lov3r on the run after murd3r of Chivi lady
The alleged plot to bewitch the President was reportedly masterminded by Nelson Banda, the younger brother of embattled former independent member of parliament for Petauke Central Emmanuel Jay Banda, who is currently on the run. The witch doctors were promised K2 million for their services but only received an advance payment of K16,500 before their scheme crumbled.
The trial of the two accused is set to commence on February 18, 2025, and will be televised. The Judiciary has announced that preparations are underway, with a scheduled meeting at the Lusaka Magistrate Complex taking place to assess the camera setup ahead of the trial. This will allow the public to follow the proceedings and see justice being served.
