Zambian Catholic Archbishop Spends Night in Jail Despite Meeting Bail Conditions

Archbishop Alick Banda of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lusaka spent Monday night at the Lusaka Central Correctional Facility after delays in finalizing his bail requirements prevented his release. The Lusaka Magistrates’ Court had previously granted the archbishop bail in his own recognizance on September 28, with a requirement to surrender all travel documents.

The Drug Enforcement Commission arrested the archbishop on allegations that he possessed a blue Toyota Hilux, registration number ALF 7734, which they claim was unlawfully obtained from the Zambia Revenue Authority. The commission alleges he held the vehicle between April 22, 2021, and December 27, 2023. This vehicle is reportedly part of a larger investigation into the improper disposal of approximately 22 motor vehicles from the revenue authority.

Archbishop Banda pleaded not guilty to the charge of possessing property believed to have been unlawfully obtained. The case is scheduled to return to court for mention and the possible start of a trial.