ZAMBIA: Churches Condemn Conflicting Reports in Fr Chewe Mukosa’s Police Summon Case
Rev. Fr Chewe Mukosa OFM Conv.
Sandra Kunda
In a unified voice, the Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ), Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia (EFZ), and Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) have expressed deep concern and condemnation following the summoning of Fr. Chewe Mukosa interviews by police in the Copperbelt over the message he shared during Mass on Holy Saturday.
On Good Friday, Lufwanyama Catholic priest Rev. Fr Chewe Mukosa OFM Conv. preached in his homily that the people of Zambia experience Good Friday perpetually due to the induced suffering by those in public and government authority, and this infuriated the Zambia Police Service command who summoned him for criminal charges.
However, there was a huge uproar by the public on the action taken by the Police who later rescinded their decision, with the State refuting allegations that the State wanted to arrest the priest.
In a joint Press statement, which was released on 10th April, 2024, the religious bodies raised alarm over the conflicting reports emerging from government offices regarding Fr. Mukosa’s supposed summons by the Police Service.
According to the church leaders, the Police retracted the call-out, while the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Mr. Thabo Kawana, denied any knowledge of such action.
Fr. Emmanuel Chikoya of CCZ emphasized, “This situation not only jeopardizes the rights of individuals, especially religious leaders, but also erodes public trust in our institutions.”
The Church leaders reiterated their stance against any form of harassment, intimidation, or undue pressure on individuals exercising their freedom of speech responsibly.
They emphasized the crucial role of the church in advocating for justice, righteousness, and societal well-being.
In a collective call to action, the religious bodies urged relevant authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding Fr. Chewe Mukosa’s case, ensure accountability for any wrongful actions or misinformation, and uphold the principles of justice and fairness for all citizens.
