The government has warned against attempts to politicise the summoning of Lusaka Archbishop Alick Banda by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), saying the matter is strictly between law enforcement and the individual concerned. Addressing journalists on Sunday, Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Jack Mwiimbu, said the Archbishop has been summoned to appear before the DEC on Monday, January 5, 2026, in his personal capacity and not as a representative of the Catholic Church. “This matter has nothing to do with the Catholic Church.
It is a matter between the Drug Enforcement Commission and Archbishop, Alick Banda, as an individual,” Mwiimbu said, emphasising that no one is above the law. He noted that the Constitution obliged every citizen to cooperate with lawful investigations. “Under Article 43(1)(f), every Zambian is required to cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
That is a constitutional requirement,” he said. Mwiimbu warned that calls by political actors and members of the public to gather at DEC offices would be unlawful. “Law and order will prevail.The Public Order Act is still in force, and anyone wishing to engage in public processions must notify the police,” he said, adding: “I call upon all law-abiding citizens not to participate in illegal gatherings.” The minister recalled that President Hakainde Hichilema, while in opposition, appeared before police more than 15 times without mobilising supporters, noting that law enforcement strictly enforced regulations at the time.
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“The police were firm. They never allowed anyone to appear in support. That was the order of the day,” Mwiimbu said.
He said Archbishop Banda’s appearance before the DEC would follow lawful procedures, with the Commission determining who may accompany him, including legal representatives and, if permitted, bishops. Mwiimbu said political processions or mass mobilisation would not be allowed. “This issue is being politicised, and that is not acceptable.
The Archbishop is a religious leader. He is not a political player,” Mwiimbu said, rejecting claims that the government was targeting the Church. He reassured the public that religious activities, including prayers, would not be interfered with.
“No one will interfere with prayers. That right is guaranteed,” Mwiimbu said, adding that security agencies would provide protection to ensure public safety while due process is followed. The minister confirmed that government had received a letter from the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops seeking dialogue and said President Hichilema was open to engagement.
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