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Lusaka Archbishop, Dr. Alick Banda, has reportedly been summoned by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) on Monday Sept. 28, prompting the Archdiocese of Lusaka to call on the faithful to remain united in prayer and solidarity with the Church leader.
In a statement dated Sept. 25, 2026, issued by the Communications Office of the Archdiocese of Lusaka (ADL), the Church said it was deeply concerned about the Archbishop’s safety and well-being following the renewed summons.
The Archdiocese called on the clergy, religious and lay faithful to remain calm and steadfast in faith as the Archbishop responds to the summons in accordance with the law.
“Our Archbishop is not alone. He remains a shepherd surrounded by his flock, and the Church stands firmly with him in prayer, communion and solidarity,” the statement said.
The Church urged the faithful not to fear but to remain vigilant in prayer and steadfast in their commitment to truth, justice and peace.
It called on members of the Archdiocese to pray for the Archbishop’s safety, strength, wisdom and well-being, as well as for justice, truth and peace to prevail throughout the process.
The renewed summons comes after the DEC formally warned Banda in January following investigations into his alleged unlawful possession of a Toyota Hilux belonging to the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA).
Addressing journalists in Lusaka at the time, DEC spokesperson Allan Tamba said Banda had been given an opportunity to explain how he came into possession of the vehicle but chose to remain silent.
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According to Tamba, Banda was alleged to have had the Toyota Hilux, registration number ALF7734, in his possession between April 22, 2021, and December 2023. The vehicle was reasonably suspected to have been unlawfully obtained from ZRA, contrary to Section 319(a) of the Penal Code, Cap 87 of the Laws of Zambia.
“The public may wish to note that, when granted an opportunity to explain how he assumed possession of the said motor vehicle, Dr. Alick Banda chose to remain silent,” Tamba said.
The Archdiocese said a Mass would be celebrated at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026, at 0800 hours in solidarity with the Archbishop, before he proceeds to the Drug Enforcement Commission at 1000 hours.
It encouraged all faithful who were able to do so to attend the Mass and stand together as one family.
“Let us be united in prayer, steadfast in faith, peaceful in spirit and unwavering in our pursuit of truth,” the statement said.
The Archdiocese did not state in the statement what the renewed summons relates to.
It concluded by placing its trust in God as refuge and strength and entrusting the Archbishop to God’s providence and the maternal intercession of Our Lady of Lusaka.
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