Why Has Mr. Batuke Imenda Not Made a Public Apology to the Catholic Church?
By Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma
The controversy surrounding UPND Secretary-General Mr. Batuke Imenda’s remarks labeling Archbishop Alick Banda the “Lucifer of Zambia” has become a glaring issue of public accountability. This inflammatory statement not only disrespected the Catholic Church—a cornerstone of moral and spiritual guidance for millions of Zambians—but also created a serious rift between the Church and the UPND government. Despite the uproar, neither Mr. Imenda nor the government has issued a public apology. Instead, they have reportedly resorted to a quiet, behind-the-scenes attempt at reconciliation, leaving many to question the sincerity and moral integrity of this response.
Avoiding Accountability: A Leadership Crisis
President Hakainde Hichilema has frequently stated that his administration enjoys a “cordial relationship” with the Catholic Church. Yet, actions speak louder than words. The reported private apology to Church officials is not only insufficient but also counterproductive. This secretive approach fails to address the public harm caused by Mr. Imenda’s defamatory remarks and further erodes trust between the government and the Catholic community.
Mr. Imenda’s comments were made in the public domain, tarnishing the Archbishop’s character and offending millions of Catholics who revere him as a spiritual leader. Why, then, is the UPND government so reluctant to issue a public apology? A private apology, no matter how well-intentioned, does not undo the damage caused to Archbishop Banda’s reputation or heal the wounds inflicted on the Catholic faithful.
This lack of transparency raises serious questions about the government’s integrity and its commitment to accountability. When public figures make inflammatory or defamatory statements, the appropriate response is a public apology. Anything less shows a lack of leadership and respect for the Zambian people.
Mr. Batuke Imenda’s Deafening Silence
The most troubling aspect of this controversy is Mr. Imenda’s silence. Having made his incendiary remarks publicly, why has he not found it necessary to retract and apologize in the same manner? This refusal to publicly acknowledge his mistake demonstrates an alarming lack of humility and personal accountability.
Leadership is not about avoiding responsibility but about owning up to one’s mistakes and taking steps to correct them. By remaining silent, Mr. Imenda has failed to demonstrate the qualities of a responsible leader and has instead deepened the divide between the government and the Catholic Church. His silence also reflects poorly on the UPND’s broader leadership, calling into question its willingness to uphold principles of respect and accountability.
The Catholic Church’s Persistent Call for Justice
The Catholic Church has made its displeasure clear, referencing this issue in multiple pastoral letters. These letters are not issued lightly; they represent the Church’s collective moral stance on matters of grave concern. That this issue continues to surface in Church communications highlights the Catholic community’s deep disappointment with the UPND’s handling of the situation.
The repeated mention of Mr. Imenda’s remarks in pastoral letters is a clarion call for the government to take meaningful action. Ignoring these calls risks further alienating the Church and its followers, who constitute a significant portion of Zambia’s population.
Why a Public Apology Is Essential
- Restoring Trust in Leadership
A public apology from Mr. Imenda and the UPND government would demonstrate a commitment to genuine leadership. It would show Zambians that their leaders are willing to admit when they are wrong and take steps to make amends.
- Reinforcing Respect for Institutions
The Catholic Church is one of Zambia’s most respected institutions. By apologizing publicly, the government would send a strong message that it values and respects the Church’s role in society.
- Healing Wounded Communities
The Catholic faithful were deeply hurt by Mr. Imenda’s remarks. A public apology would go a long way in addressing their grievances and reaffirming the government’s commitment to unity and inclusivity.
- Setting a Precedent for Accountability
By holding Mr. Imenda accountable, the UPND would set a precedent for responsible governance. It would show that no one, regardless of their position, is above accountability.
A Test of Leadership for President Hichilema
President Hichilema campaigned on a platform of transparency, accountability, and unity. However, the government’s response to this issue undermines those values. The reluctance to address Mr. Imenda’s remarks publicly sends the wrong message—that divisive rhetoric is acceptable and that accountability is negotiable.
The President has an opportunity to demonstrate true leadership by insisting that Mr. Imenda issue a public apology. This act would not only repair relations with the Catholic Church but also reaffirm the government’s commitment to ethical governance.
The Broader Implications of Silence
By avoiding a public apology, the UPND risks alienating the Catholic community and eroding public trust. The Church played a significant role in Zambia’s political transformation and remains a powerful moral authority. Ignoring its grievances could have far-reaching consequences for the government’s credibility and legitimacy.
Moreover, the government’s inaction sets a dangerous precedent. It suggests that public figures can make inflammatory statements without consequence, further polarizing the nation and undermining efforts to build a more inclusive and respectful political culture.
Conclusion
Mr. Batuke Imenda’s refusal to issue a public apology to the Catholic Church is a glaring failure of leadership and accountability. His silence, coupled with the government’s secretive approach, has only deepened the rift with the Catholic community and damaged the UPND’s reputation as a party committed to unity and good governance.
The solution is clear: Mr. Imenda must apologize publicly. This act of humility would not only mend relations with the Catholic Church but also set a powerful example of accountability and respect for Zambia’s institutions.
True leadership is not about avoiding mistakes but about owning them and taking steps to make things right. The time for secrecy and deflection is over. The Zambian people deserve leaders who are unafraid to admit when they are wrong and who prioritize unity over pride.
A public apology is not a sign of weakness—it is a hallmark of principled leadership. For the sake of healing and reconciliation, the UPND must act now.