DEC SUMMONS BISHOP ALICK BANDA AGAIN THE Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has summoned metropolitan Archdiocese of Lusaka Archbishop Alick Banda to appear before it on Monday in the latest episode in the long-running sparring between the government and the senior cleric. In January this year, DEC formally warned and cautioned Archbishop Banda for his alleged […]

DEC SUMMONS BISHOP ALICK BANDA AGAIN

THE Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has summoned metropolitan Archdiocese of Lusaka Archbishop Alick Banda to appear before it on Monday in the latest episode in the long-running sparring between the government and the senior cleric.

In January this year, DEC formally warned and cautioned Archbishop Banda for his alleged unlawful possession of a Hilux from Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA).

This was after Archbishop Banda appeared for questioning over his possession of a Hilux at DEC headquarters where he decided to remain silent throughout the interrogation process.

It is not yet clear what the latest summon is about.

And the metropolitan Archdiocese of Lusaka has summoned members of the Church to a solidarity Mass to be held on Monday morning preceding Bishop Banda’s appearance before DEC.

The Catholic Church in Lusaka says it is deeply concerned for the safety and well-being of our Archbishop Banda as he appears before the DEC.

“The Archdiocese of Lusaka expresses its deep concern and unwavering solidarity with our Local Shepherd, His Grace Most Rev Dr Alick Banda, following renewed summons by the Drug Enforcement Commission,” the notice read in part.

As the Church in Lusaka, we are deeply concerned for our Archbishop’s safety and well-being. We therefore call upon the clergy, religious and lay faithful to remain united in prayer, calm in spirit and steadfast in faith as our Archbishop responds to the summons in accordance with the law.

“Accordingly, Mass will be celebrated at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus on Monday 28th September, 2026 at 08:00 hours in solidarity with the Archbishop, before he proceeds to the Drug Enforcement Commission at 10:00 hours.”