Apostle Joseph Ziba has broken his silence on Bishop Medram Chirwa’s arrest over the alleged murder of Tathokoza Salimu.
The Fountain of Victory International Church founder says information available to the church has not conclusively connected Chirwa to the alleged offence, insisting that accounts of his whereabouts and the outcome of a police search must be considered as investigations continue.
In a statement, Ziba said Chirwa told police he was at Mbwatalika, on the outskirts of Lilongwe, searching for land when the alleged murder occurred.
According to Ziba, three people who reportedly helped the bishop search for and purchase land confirmed that they had been with him during the period in question.
He also said a police search at Chirwa’s residence did not yield the alleged murder weapon or other personal belongings believed to belong to the deceased.
“Based on the information currently available to us, we are not aware of evidence established through the investigations conducted so far that conclusively connects him to the alleged offence,” Ziba said.
However, Ziba stressed that the church does not condone criminal conduct and called for thorough investigations, saying anyone found responsible for the killing must be held accountable under the law.
“Human life is sacred, and anyone found responsible for such a grave crime must be held accountable in accordance with the law,” he said.
Ziba also dismissed reports that Chirwa had fled to Karonga, saying the bishop accompanied him on an apostolic tour of the Northern Region before returning to Lilongwe, where he led a church service on September 27.
“It is unfortunate that some reports and public discussions have circulated alleging that Bishop Chirwa fled to Karonga,” Ziba said.
The church leader further said Chirwa agreed, following legal advice, to remain in police custody for 72 hours to allow investigators more time to complete their inquiries before his court appearance for remand proceedings.
Ziba urged the public to avoid speculation and allow the legal process to take its course.
“We therefore appeal to the Fountain Nation and the general public to refrain from speculation, avoid spreading unverified information, and resist the temptation to pronounce judgment before the due process of the law has run its course,” he said.
