Archbishop Alick Banda of the Archdiocese of Lusaka has been summoned by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) of Zambia to appear before its Anti-Money Laundering Investigations Unit. The summons, dated December 31, 2025, instructs Archbishop Banda to report to DEC offices in Lusaka on January 5, 2026, at 10:00 hours. Issued under Section 26(c) of the Anti-Money Laundering Act No. 14 of 2001, the notice is a requirement for questioning and does not constitute a formal charge or finding of guilt. However, its issuance indicates that investigators believe there are matters requiring formal explanation under Zambia’s anti-money laundering framework.

The Catholic Church in Zambia holds significant moral and political influence, often critically addressing issues of governance, corruption, and economic hardship. Archbishop Banda himself has been an outspoken cleric on various national concerns, rendering this summons particularly sensitive in a country where church and state relations carry substantial political weight. This situation is expected to garner considerable public attention, given the Church's influence and the broader context of enforcement actions under the current anti-corruption drive.

Fred M’membe, President of the Socialist Party and a 2026 presidential candidate for the People’s Pact, views this action as a deliberate attempt by Mr. Hakainde Hichilema to discredit, criminalize, and humiliate Archbishop Banda. M’membe suggests this is part of a political survival strategy that has intensified to ensure Archbishop Banda’s removal well before the August 13 general elections. He criticizes what he describes as the crassness of Mr. Hichilema’s politics, especially in using the DEC, which M’membe claims is under the President's direct supervision. M’membe further asserts that the Catholic Church has faced continuous attacks throughout history, drawing parallels to biblical times, and anticipates increased persecution of Catholic leadership, particularly Archbishop Banda, as Mr. Hichilema's political insecurity grows. He urges Catholics to expect such persecution, referencing Pope Francis's homily on bishops needing to pray, remain humble, and stay close to the people, especially when under attack from the "great accuser" who seeks to reveal sins to scandalize the people of God.

Zulu, another commentator, described the DEC's action as unwarranted and deeply alarming, reflecting a deliberate attempt to intimidate a respected religious leader known for consistently speaking truth to power. He highlighted the Catholic Church’s role as a moral compass for the nation, guiding society through principles of integrity, justice, and compassion. Zulu emphasized Archbishop Banda’s courageous and consistent voice against corruption, injustice, and poor governance, arguing that targeting him is an attack on the moral ideals and democratic values he embodies. He also pointed out an apparent selective justice, noting that while ministers and ruling party officials facing allegations are shielded, a man of faith is publicly maligned. Zulu condemned this hypocrisy as shameful and indicative of an erosion of democratic principles. He warned those in power that manipulating state institutions for political scores is a reckless path that breeds instability and public distrust, stating that the Zambian people are vigilant and observing the growing double standards and culture of fear. Zulu concluded by urging opposition parties, civil society, and citizens to unite in safeguarding democracy and fundamental freedoms, reminding the UPND leadership that they were elected to serve, not to persecute, and that history will judge their actions, just as God and the people are watching.