Government of Zambia has reversed the deportation of Rwandese Catholic priest, Rev Fr Viateur Banyangandora and declared that he is free to come back.
Home Affairs Minister, Edgar Lungu said at a media briefing that the revocation of the deportation order followed consultations with various members of the Catholic Church.
He said the move was in line with "the Bible teachings to forgive one another in the love of Christ."
Mr Lungu, however, warned members of the public regardless of their political affiliation that matters of the Church should not be mixed with politics. "I further warn those who want to intervene with the running of Government while hiding behind religion that the law will catch up with them." he said adding that "I will not take kindly to anyone who uses the name of the Church to gain political mileage at the expense of serving the Zambian people."
According to Times of Zambia Father Banyangadora, 40, who was based at Lundazi Catholic Parish, was deported about three months ago for allegedly violating the Laws of Zambia.
In his deportation order, Mr Lungu stated that Fr Banyangandora's conduct was found to be a danger to peace and good order in Zambia contrary to Section 39(2) of the Immigration and Deportation Act, No. 18 of 2010.
Meanwhile the Zambia Episcopal Conference (ZEC) and the Council Churches in Zambia (CCZ) said separately that the move would enhance the relationship between the church and the Government.
ZEC General Secretary Father Cleophas Lungu said in an interview in Lusaka that the Catholic Church was happy with the revocation.
"We are happy with this good news. We have been praying and hoping that Government reconsiders the deportation of the man of God," Fr Lungu said.
He said the Catholic Church had made its mandate clear that it would never participate in partisan politics but continue advocating for good governance and development.
He said just as Government had forgiven Fr Banyangandora, the Church also continued to bear with all those with whom misunderstandings may exist.
CCZ Secretary-General Suzanne Matale said the revocation of Fr Banyangandora's deportation was a welcome development.
Reverend Matale however reiterated that the Church would continue to comment on matters of governance. "We preach to human beings that are affected by politics. Their concerns are our concerns therefore we cannot shun from talking about them," Rev Matale said.