By Mark Ziligone
A consortium of ten civil society organisations has called for respect for the rule of law following the summoning of the Archbishop of Lusaka, ALICK BANDA, by the Drug Enforcement Commission -DEC.
Consortium Chairperson ISAAC MWANZA says the lawful inquiry should not be construed as an attack on the Catholic Church or as an effort to silence its prophetic voice.
Mr. MWANZA notes that while the solidarity shown by the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops –ZCCB- and the Lusaka Archdiocese towards the Archbishop is understandable, it should not be interpreted as interference in an ongoing legal process.
He says under Zambian law, investigations are guided by conduct and evidence, not by religious status or office, adding that no individual is above the law.
Mr. MWANZA explains that questions surrounding the ownership and acquisition of a motor vehicle alleged to have originated from the Zambia Revenue Authority –ZRA- require clarification, adding that accountability should not be mistaken for persecution.
Speaking at a press briefing IN Lusaka today, he said being summoned for questioning does not amount to guilt but forms part of due process, guided by principles such as the presumption of innocence and equality before the law.
Mr. MWANZA added that both Zambian law and Catholic Canon Law demand high standards of transparency and accountability from members of the clergy.
Meanwhile, consortium member ARTHUR MUYUNDA urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation as investigations continue.
Mr. MUYUNDA also called on the Drug Enforcement Commission to communicate clearly, within the confines of the law, to prevent misunderstanding and unnecessary tension.
