BEING ACCUSED IS NOT THE SAME AS BEING GUILTY
One of the fundamental principles of justice is that every accused person is entitled to the presumption of innocence until guilt is established through the due process of law.
This principle applies to everyone, regardless of their profession, social standing, political affiliation or religious position.
Archbishop Alick Banda, like any other person facing legal proceedings, is entitled to have the allegations against him determined fairly by a competent court.
An arrest, a charge or compliance with bail conditions does not, in itself, establish guilt.
While questions of public confidence and institutional responsibility may arise when allegations are made against a person in a position of leadership, we must be careful not to allow public discussion to become a substitute for judicial determination.
The prosecution must prove its case, the accused must be allowed to answer the allegations, and the courts must decide the matter on the evidence before them.
Accountability and the presumption of innocence are not opposing principles. They must operate together.
No one is above the law, but no one should be condemned before the law has taken its course.
— Hon. Given Lubinda