TWO church mother bodies have welcomed the revocation of Rwandese Catholic priest Viateur Banyangandora's deportation.

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 yesterday 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 also welcomed 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.