“No One Is Above the Law “

By Alice Lubasi

Government says no person is above the law, regardless of their position, status, profession or religious office.

Information and Media Permanent Secretary THABO KAWANA says legal proceedings involving members of the clergy should not be interpreted as an attack on the church or a particular religious denomination.

Mr KAWANA says the church remains an important institution in providing spiritual guidance and social services, while individual clergy are accountable for their conduct under the laws of the country.

He says the clergy facing serious legal or ethical allegations may consider stepping aside from their responsibilities while investigations or court proceedings take their course.

Mr KAWANA has told ZNBC News that such measures are not a declaration of guilt but can help protect the integrity of religious institutions, preserve public confidence and allow due process to proceed without unnecessary controversy.

He says government respects the rights of all citizens, including the presumption of innocence, and remains committed to ensuring that the law is applied fairly and impartially.

The House of Clergy Zambia has called for equal application of justice, saying no one should be above the law regardless of their position or religious office.

Meanwhile House of Clergy Zambia National Executive Director JIMMY NG’AMBI says a legal matter involving an individual member of the clergy should not be misconstrued as a battle between the government and the church or an attack on Christianity.

Speaking in an interview with ZNBC News, Reverend NG’AMBI said although the church remains an important partner in national development, peace building and moral guidance , religious office does not exempt individuals from personal accountability under Zambian law.

And , God’s Divine Mission International Ministries Pastor JOHN NYIRENDA said the consistent application of justice is essential to ensuring that everyone is treated equally before the law, regardless of their religious affiliation, political standing or position.

Pastor NYIRENDA said no individual should receive special protection when they break the law.

He said equal application of justice promotes public confidence in institutions, peace and accountability.