UPND MP’s SHOCKING INSULT, Calls Catholic Bishops “CRIMINALS” in Parliament, Sparks Outrage!
In a shocking and highly controversial outburst in Parliament, Michelo Kasautu, the Member of Parliament for Bweengwa, has ignited a political firestorm after he called Catholic Bishops “criminals” during a heated session on reconciliation with the Church.
The remarks, made during Vice President Mutotwe Kafwaya’s question time, have left the political and religious communities reeling, with five Members of Parliament lodging formal complaints, demanding immediate disciplinary action.
The debacle unfolded when Kafwaya posed a simple yet politically charged question about the government’s plans to reconcile with the Catholic Church ahead of the 2026 elections, a topic that has been the subject of considerable tension within the ruling UPND.
In what can only be described as a display of utter disrespect and reckless abandon, Kasautu allegedly interrupted the proceedings, declaring, “We cannot reconcile with those criminals, those are criminals,” in reference to the Catholic Bishops.
This shocking statement has not only violated parliamentary decorum but also insulted the very institution that has long been a pillar of Zambia’s social fabric, contributing immeasurably to the country’s development through its schools, hospitals, and orphanages. The Church has also historically played a crucial role in advocating for social justice and holding successive governments accountable.
The uproar has prompted an immediate and unified response from five fellow MPs, who have now demanded that Kasautu face severe repercussions for his blatant violation of parliamentary ethics. MPs Kalalwe Mukosa (Chinsali), Francis Robert Kapyanga (Mpika), Kampamba Mulenga (Kalulushi), Melessiana Phiri (Milanzi), and Davies Chisopa (Mkushi South) have signed a formal petition, accusing Kasautu of breaching Standing Orders No. 69 and No. 72, which prohibit disruptive behavior and the use of provocative language in Parliament.
In their petition, the MPs express grave concern over the impact of such remarks on the integrity of Parliament and the dignity of Zambia’s clergy. They further emphasize the importance of respecting Zambia’s religious institutions, which have stood as a force for good in a country where corruption and misgovernance have plagued successive administrations.
The MPs have also underscored the role of the Catholic Church in Zambia’s political landscape, advocating for peace, human rights, and social responsibility.
Kasautu’s unprovoked attack on the Catholic Church comes at a time when the UPND, led by President Hakainde Hichilema, has already been under fire for a series of controversial statements and actions that have strained the relationship between the government and the Church.
The remarks, made without a shred of evidence or justification, serve to exacerbate the already fragile ties between the two entities, further eroding any chance of reconciliation ahead of the upcoming elections.
The political implications of Kasautu’s remarks cannot be overstated. With the Catholic Church holding significant sway over Zambia’s electorate, especially in rural areas, such incendiary language could have a profound impact on the UPND’s chances in 2026.
The government must now contend with the fallout from this incident, as its relationship with the Church becomes increasingly strained.
For their part, the UPND leadership has yet to publicly comment on Kasautu’s offensive outburst, raising questions about the party’s ability to maintain control over its MPs and their behavior.
The silence from the top echelons of government further complicates matters, leaving the public to wonder whether this is a sign of deeper division within the ruling party, or a reflection of a government that has lost touch with the values of tolerance and respect.
If the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti, fails to take swift and decisive action in addressing this breach, it could send a dangerous signal that such divisive and inflammatory remarks are acceptable within the walls of Parliament.
The Speaker’s response will be closely scrutinized, as this incident has far-reaching consequences for the future of Zambia’s political and religious landscape.
March 14, 2025
©️ KUMWESU
