By Francis Chipalo
Democratic Union president Ackim Antony Njobvu has cautioned the ruling UPND against “fighting” the Catholic Church, saying summoning Archbishop Alick Banda for questioning amounts to summoning the entire church.
Njobvu argues that the church, which supported President Hakainde Hichilema during his treason trial, will speak for him when he is out of power in August 2026.
Meanwhile, the UPND government has justified bishop Banda’s probe, stating that it is a routine law-enforcement process targeting an individual, and not the church.
Home Affairs Minister Jack Mwiimbu emphasizes that accountability processes should proceed without creating unnecessary tension.
But the Catholic Church has also expressed concerns, alleging persecution and urging prayer and unity in line with President Hichilema’s new year’s message.
Opposition leaders, including Njobvu, are urging the church to take a bold stand against alleged injustices and human rights violations.
Speaking on Sunday Chat, Christian Nation radio, Njobvu claimed that government is fighting the church, an institution that fought for HH.
“The same church they are fighting today fought for HH when he was in prison until his release. It is also the same church that will speak for them when they are kicked out of power in August this year,” Njobvu said.
Njobvu further reminded President Hichilema that three catholic bishops, including bishop Banda himself intervened during his case as an opposition leader.
He reminded government that the entire catholic church feels attacked, adding that government should desist from fighting the church as a whole.
Archbishop Banda is on Monday expected to appear for questioning at the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC).
Bishop Banda is being summoned in connection with an investigation into an allegedly illegally obtained Toyota Hilux vehicle linked to the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA).
The DEC has stated that the investigation has been ongoing and is not politically motivated, as some have claimed.
The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) has expressed solidarity with Archbishop Banda, describing the summons as an attempt to silence the Catholic Church’s prophetic voice on national governance.
They allege that the government is using state institutions to target the Archbishop because of his stance on governance and accountability.
Njobvu has urged government to ceasefire and stand down against the catholic church.
