Two men accused of practicing supernatural powers are set to appear before the Lusaka Magistrates’ Court as their trial commences.
The suspects, Leonard Phiri, 43, of Sinda District, and Jasten Mabulesse, a Mozambican national, face charges of practicing supernatural powers and possessing charms.
During their plea on December 23, 2024, before Lusaka Magistrate Fine Mayambu, both men pleaded guilty to possessing charms but denied allegations of practicing supernatural powers.
The charge of practicing supernatural powers is in violation of Section 5 of the Witchcraft Act, Chapter 90 of the Laws of Zambia.
According to the allegations, Phiri and Mabulesse were found in possession of charms and claimed to have supernatural abilities between November 22 and 23, 2024.
Meanwhile, the Judiciary has rescinded its decision to broadcast live court proceedings for the case.
Judiciary of Zambia Deputy Director – Corporate Communication, Kalumba Slavin, confirmed that while the trial will not be televised, it will still be held in open court, allowing members of the public and media houses to attend under established legal procedures.
The case has drawn public interest due to its unusual nature, and the court’s ruling is expected to set a precedent for similar matters in Zambia.
What a waste of time. We’re the laughing stoke of the world.
Those devils need to be prosecuted. Unless if it was you who got bitten in the a$$.
Is it to prevent the supernatural powers being transmitted through the broadcast? Good security move by the intelligent service kkkk
To avoid other guilty animals from watching live, that was a great decision.
What about the Chameleon, will it attend court too?
it wont. It will be difficulty to use it as evidence . They will say it was green but it will turn red . The judge will say not correct and the case will washed out.
The matter is already before courts. I am just wondering how some people feel that the defendants are innocent. I it because of where those that are accused come from?
If we had people with such super natural powers, Zambia would not have 40% of its population living below the poverty line….(my imagination running off – we would all be driving cru crus, electricity would not be an issue, the country would be like heaven – milk and honey overflowing). Kikiki, mu Zambia namo – you joke too much!
its not 40% but 70 % below
We really are in the stone age now. From a country that used to assemble its own vehicles and now slaves to superstition. Well done Zambians!!
Why don’t they arrest all witch doctors displaying their charms on the streets of Zambia and the streets of Africa?
Why are witch doctors suspect of using charms to catch fellow witch doctors? Are both witch doctors guilt?