Group demands abolition of colonial Public Order Act, as Zambia clocks 60

As Zambia celebrates its 60th independence anniversary, the Advocates for Democratic Governance Foundation (ADEG) has called on the government to honor the sacrifices of freedom fighters by abolishing undemocratic colonial-era laws.

Gideon Musonda, ADEG’s Executive Director, expressed concern that Zambia continued to celebrate its independence while still enforcing outdated colonial laws, such as the 1955 Public Order Act, which restricted citizens’ freedoms of expression, association and assembly.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Wednesday, Musonda noted that successive governments had exploited these laws, resulting in a shrinking civic and political space.

He acknowledged government’s progress in law reforms and its efforts to maintain stability but stated the urgency of enacting the Public Gathering Bill to replace the colonial Public Order Act.

“This new legislation will promote the full enjoyment of freedoms of expression, association, and assembly,” Musonda said.

He reminded Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Jack Mwiimbu, of his pledge to table the bill in Parliament by the end of 2024, as promised in March.

“As Zambia reflects on its heritage and embraces its future, ADEG reaffirms its commitment to advocating against colonial legal legacies and supporting the development of a modern, democratic legal framework that honors the sacrifices of our freedom fighters,” Musonda concluded.

Zambia celebrates its 60th Independence Day on October 24, 2024, under the theme: “60 Years Strong: Honoring Our Heritage, Embracing Our Future.”

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