By 
Chief Mnukwa of the Ngoni people says individuals are afraid to speak out on matters involving government officials due to a history of lawsuits against those who have voiced their opinions.
Mnukwa noted that individuals in government positions command a level of respect that discourages citizens from freely expressing their opinions.
In an interview with Zambia Monitor in Eastern Province, the traditional ruler claimed that some individuals in power exploit citizens.
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“We have been observing in government circles, whoever says something about someone, they sue, they take you to court,” he pointed out.
He added that this practice prevented many people in rural communities from voicing their grievances.
“He may want to say something, but he will think twice, ‘I may be sued and what do I have,” Mnukwa stated.
He urged that this element of fear must be eradicated from people’s minds.
Mnukwa further added that abolishing the law of defamation must be prioritised so that people can freely oppose the government.
“We need to open up on those, to give the people the freedom to comment on government issues and any public figure’s actions,” he encouraged.
He further urged government officials to step up and fight for media freedoms, freedom of expression and digital rights on behalf of the Zambian people.
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