The summoning of Archbishop Alick Banda by Zambia's Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has ignited a significant public discourse, creating tension between calls for lawful compliance and expressions of public solidarity. This situation has drawn attention to the conduct of public figures, the role of investigative bodies, and the collective responsibility to maintain national peace and stability.

Reverend Lungu has issued a stern warning, cautioning that Zambia's peace should not be jeopardized by careless or provocative statements. He emphasized that exaggerating a lawful investigative procedure is both misleading and irresponsible, as it distorts public understanding of due process, erodes confidence in investigative institutions, and diverts focus from factual matters to unfounded speculation. Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka, Reverend Lungu urged public figures to exercise utmost restraint and accuracy when addressing sensitive issues that impact faith communities and the broader national interest. He further advised that Archbishop Banda should honor the investigators’ request, underscoring that compliance with lawful summons upholds the rule of law and ensures issues are addressed through established legal channels rather than in the court of public opinion. Additionally, Reverend Lungu cautioned church leaders against accepting gifts, advising a careful examination of such gestures to prevent compromising their integrity or entanglement in corrupt practices, urging them to remain focused on their spiritual mission over personal gain.

In contrast to the call for restraint, the DEC Director General, Nason Banda, on Thursday, reportedly urged Archbishop Banda to avoid bringing “unnecessary people” when he appears for questioning. This request, however, was met with strong opposition from Dr. M’membe, a member of the Catholic Men’s League, who questioned the expectation for the Archbishop to appear alone.

Dr. M’membe vehemently argued against the DEC's position, drawing parallels to instances where President Hakainde Hichilema was accompanied by large crowds when summoned by law enforcement agencies in the past. He declared that Archbishop Alick Banda “will not walk alone to the Drug Enforcement Commission on Monday,” asserting that his flock would accompany their Shepherd. Dr. M'membe invoked the principle of equality, stating, “what’s good for the goose is good for the gander,” meaning that rules or treatment should apply equally to everyone. He further reinforced this by quoting the biblical 'Golden Rule' from Matthew 7:12 and Luke 6:31: “Do to others as you would have them do to you,” which advocates for empathy, kindness, and reciprocity in ethical conduct.

Dr. M’membe criticized the Commission for referring to the Archbishop’s flock as “cadres,” deeming it an insult and questioning when the faithful became cadres. He subsequently made a clarion call to all Catholics and Zambians of goodwill to turn out in huge numbers, in their various Catholic lay groups and uniforms, to accompany the Archbishop to the Drug Enforcement Commission, regardless of weather conditions.

Amidst this unfolding situation, the Archdiocese of Lusaka's Vicar General’s Office issued a