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The Zambian government has assured citizens that no amendments will be made to the Bill of Rights without public consultation and stakeholder input.
Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Mulambo Haimbe emphasized that the Bill of Rights, enshrined in the Constitution, can only be amended through a referendum, safeguarding it from unilateral changes by administrative authorities.
Speaking in Lusaka on Monday during a meeting at Charter House with visiting United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression, Irene Khan, Haimbe reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that any changes to constitutional rights involve the people directly.
“Past incidents include individuals being attacked at radio stations for expressing opposing views, and laws related to defamation of the president have been used to stifle free speech,” Haimbe stated.
He noted that under President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration, Zambia was witnessing renewed efforts to uphold the rule of law and protect fundamental freedoms.
The Minister highlighted constitutional provisions safeguarding freedom of expression, including Article 11, which protects individual rights, and Article 20, which guarantees freedom of opinion and expression.
Zambia has recently made progress in promoting free speech, such as repealing the defamation of the president law, which had been used to suppress dissent, the Minister claimed.
“This move demonstrates the government’s commitment to fostering open dialogue and protecting constitutional rights,” Haimbe said.
During her tour, Khan will engage with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations and media outlets, to assess the state of freedom of expression.
Her mission will focus on evaluating Zambia’s legal framework and policies on freedom of opinion and expression, as well as the safety of journalists, human rights defenders, and civil society actors.
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