RABECCA BANDA writes
@SunZambian
The Chilenje Local Court has dismissed a case of defamation of character for lack of evidence.
Judith Mwakayaya, 42, of Mikango Barracks was sued by Leonard Tembo, 45, of Katoba Village for accusing him of practicing witchcraft.
Tembo said he was married to the sister of Mwakayaya’s husband, adding that her son usually got sick.
“Her son recently fell sick and was taken to a prophet. He was prayed for and got healed. My wife visited them the next day,” She told my wife that I was a wizard. I went there and asked if indeed she had said I was the one bewitching her son and she said yes,
“Her son drinks carelessly and on several occasions attempted to commit suicide,” Tembo said.
Tembo said Mwakayaya did not only call him a wizard but equally accused his relatives of practicing witchcraft as well.
“I want her to compensate me for defaming my name because I do not practice witchcraft,” he said.
The two were appearing before senior local court magistrate Ackim Phiri sitting with presiding local court magistrate Patrick Nyirenda.
In defence Mwakayaya said her 21 year old son seriously fell ill to the point of death and the family booked a taxi to take him to a pastor for divine intervention.
“When we arrived there, the pastor directed us to put him under the tree and he started praying for him. My son started to manifest and started speaking. He mentioned four names, including Tembo’s,” she said.
“My son was calling Tembo’s name, saying he wanted to see him. My son was healed and we went home. The following day in the morning, Tembo’s wife visited us,” she said.
She explained to her about her son being prayed for and mentioning four name including that of her husband, Tembo.
“That’s how my sister in-law left and went to tell her husband and other relatives that I said he was among the people bewitching my son,” she said.
The court dismissed the claim for lack of sufficient evidence and reconciled both parties.
