The King revealed of the arrest of some youths who had been apprehended for allegedly using witchcraft to harm others without justification

By Emmanuel Mandela

The King of Azande Kingdom, His Majesty Atoroba Peni Rikito Gbudue has issued a stern warning against the practice of witchcraft, saying it is a source of violence and the loss of innocent lives within the communities.

“Witchcraft has claimed the lives of too many innocent people. It must be abandoned,” King Atoroba stated during a media briefing on Friday.

He emphasized the urgent need for community leaders and youth to take a firm stand against the harmful practices which has contributed to escalating tensions across the Kingdom.

“Regardless of personal relationships or traditional ties, we must stand against witchcraft in our communities,” he declared.

The King revealed of the arrest of some youths who had been apprehended for allegedly using witchcraft to harm others without justification.

However, King Atoroba clarified his position on traditional healers, stating that any traditional practices for medicinal purposes are acceptable within the Kingdom but not those practices that are intended to harm to kill.

The King’s address has drawn mixed reactions from community members.

A concerned resident of Yambio, who preferred to remain anonymous, praised the King’s stance, stating, “The King has spoken wisely. Witchcraft is tearing apart families and creating mistrust in our communities. His call for action is long overdue.”

Another community member from a rural area expressed skepticism, saying, “Witchcraft is deeply rooted in our cultures. It’s not easy to distinguish between its good and bad uses. The King’s directive might lead to further conflicts.”

Also, an unnamed practitioner of traditional medicine and witchcraft offered a divided perspective, cautiously welcoming the King’s distinction between healing and harmful practices. “Traditional healing has been part of Azande culture for generations. It is unfair to lump it with those who use witchcraft to harm others.”

However, the same witchcraft  practitioner expressed concerns about the King’s comments, “These blanket condemnations might drive genuine healers underground and worsen the situation.”

For their part, church leaders in the Azande Kingdom have lauded the King’s firm stance, highlighting the detrimental effects of witchcraft on faith and community development.

Ev. Anibati Justine, said. “Witchcraft erodes trust and fuels hatred among community members. It stands in direct opposition to the principles of love and unity preached by the Church. We fully support the King’s call to end these harmful practices.”

Another pastor, who requested anonymity, noted the challenges faced by the Church in combating witchcraft: “The fear of witchcraft weakens people’s faith and divides families. This initiative by His Majesty could pave the way for a spiritually stronger community.”

The King’s declaration comes at a time when the Azande Kingdom is working to strengthen its social fabric and cultural identity.

His Majesty urged local authorities, traditional leaders, and youth to collaborate in addressing the issue and fostering unity across the region.

“Let us build a community free of fear and filled with trust,” King Atoroba stated.

The debate over witchcraft, deeply embedded in Azande culture, remains complex, but His Majesty’s strong condemnation has reignited discussions on its role in society, leaving many hopeful for a safer and more unified Azande Kingdom.