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The government has been urged to balance freedom of speech with ethical considerations and laws that prevent harm to others.
Antonio Mwanza, the Socialist Party Deputy Secretary-General, reminded the UPND government to fulfill its promise of repealing the Cyber Security Act.
Mwanza spoke during the Zambia Monitor Project Aliyense Zoom program titled “Hate Speech and Incitement Laws: Reviewing Impact on Fundamental Rights.”
He cited fear of prosecution, suppression of legitimate voices, stifling of criticism and dissent as negative impacts of these laws on citizens.
“Failure to address root causes of social and economic challenges, and encouragement of tribalism, regionalism, and nepotism, were creating political instability,” Mwanza added.
He named several politicians who had been arrested for exercising freedom of speech under what he described as archaic laws needing repeal.
He emphasized the need for change to protect democratic values, promote free speech and prevent use of such laws as tools for suppressing dissent and stifling free speech.
Dr. Mweene Himwinga, Citizens for Better Environment Director, highlighted the complexities of navigating freedom of speech while avoiding harm to others.
Himwinga stated the importance of being mindful of one’s words and actions, particularly in sensitive contexts.
“The delicate nature of this balance is often in the hands of individuals who may be prone to selective application of the law,” she said.
Himwinga appealed to citizens to avoid “fighting words” that provoke violent reactions, threats, or defamation.
Caritas Zambia Chingola District Coordinator, Eugene Mulenga, stressed the importance of allowing citizens to express themselves freely on national matters without fear of being politicized or tagged to a particular political party.
Mulenga noted the need to separate politics from national development issues and for the government to listen to citizens’ concerns and suggestions.
“Government should recognize that citizens have a God-given right to express themselves freely, as long as they are not being defamatory or injurious to others,” he said.
Victor Chilufya, a governance and development enthusiast, advised citizens, journalists, and politicians to be accountable and responsible for their actions.
“Journalists must report factual information and operate with integrity, even in a challenging environment. Politicians, whether in power or opposition, must be accountable for their actions and decisions,” Chilufya advised.
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