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The Foundation for Democratic Process (FODEP) has raised concerns over the delayed enactment of the Public Gathering Bill, questioning the government’s commitment to safeguarding civil liberties.
In his 2024 reflections, FODEP President Mwenda Mumbuna stressed the importance of transparency regarding the legislation’s status, highlighting the urgency of addressing issues related to the Public Order Act.
“The shrinking democratic space, especially concerning the application of the Public Order Act, demands immediate attention. Repealing or reforming the act is crucial to prevent future abuses of power,” Mumbuna said.
As Zambia prepares for the 2026 general elections, Mumbuna urged the government to pursue constitutional and electoral reforms through broad consultations and consensus-building.
He also called for addressing concerns raised by civil society organizations over the 2024 NGO Bill and the Cybersecurity Bill, citing their impact on civil liberties and NGO operations.
Mumbuna expressed alarm over the resurgence of violence during recent by-elections, emphasizing the need for fairer electoral systems and stronger enforcement of laws against violence.
He suggested that the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) should disqualify candidates involved in electoral violence.
The FODEP president called on the judiciary to enhance transparency by broadcasting public interest cases, reinforcing public trust in the legal system.
He also encouraged judicial decisions to be decisive to strengthen confidence in the judiciary.
On national unity, Mumbuna highlighted the ongoing tensions between President Hakainde Hichilema and former President Edgar Lungu, urging the Church to mediate dialogue and reconciliation for the sake of development and unity.
Regarding corruption, Mumbuna emphasized the need for tangible results, urging the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to demonstrate increased accountability and impartiality.
He called for the establishment of the ACC governance board to restore public confidence in its operations.
Mumbuna further criticized restrictions on the freedom of assembly for opposition parties, stating that such actions undermine democratic principles.
“Reforms in governance, civil liberties, and electoral systems are vital to fostering a vibrant democratic space in Zambia,” he said.
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