Explained: Why the DEC Summoned Archbishop Banda

Mwiimbu said the government remains sensitive to the role the Catholic Church plays in national life and acknowledged its contribution to education, health care, and social development. He emphasized that respect for religious institutions remains intact and that lawful accountability processes should not be mistaken for hostility or intimidation.

He cautioned against framing routine legal procedures as confrontations between church and state, warning that such narratives risk inflaming public sentiment unnecessarily. According to the minister, Zambia’s democratic culture is anchored in the rule of law, which requires that all citizens — regardless of position — respond to lawful inquiries when required.

The Home Affairs Minister also addressed concerns raised by sections of the public regarding freedom of worship and assembly. He assured citizens that the state would continue to safeguard these freedoms, noting that prayer meetings and religious gatherings would proceed without interference. Any police presence, he said, would be strictly for maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of participants.

Mwiimbu reiterated that the Drug Enforcement Commission operates independently within the confines of the law and that its actions should not be conflated with political motives. He said institutions tasked with law enforcement must be allowed to carry out their mandates without pressure or speculation, especially in high-profile cases that attract public attention.

He further encouraged religious leaders, civil society, and political actors to exercise restraint and promote calm, emphasizing that national unity must be preserved. The minister said constructive dialogue, rather than confrontation, remains the most effective way to address misunderstandings and resolve tensions.

In closing, Mwiimbu said the government’s position is guided by fairness, legality, and respect for constitutional rights. He urged the public to avoid drawing conclusions before investigations are concluded and to allow due process to take its course. The minister said transparency, peace, and dialogue remain central to the government’s approach in managing sensitive national issues.