Rights Commission urges responsible exercise of free speech on social media, condemns attacks on albinos

The Human Rights Commission has urged members of the public to exercise their freedom of expression responsibly, particularly on social media.

Acting Spokesperson, Simon Mulumbi, emphasized that freedom of expression, whether online or offline, was not absolute.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Saturday, Mulumbi explained that while the Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of expression, it also imposed a responsibility on individuals to avoid expressions that harm others, which could constitute unlawful acts and human rights violations punishable by law.

This statement followed the widespread circulation of alleged content on social media that was claimed to contain hate speech targeting an individual with albinism.

“It must be noted that albinism is a genetic condition causing a lack of pigmentation in a person’s hair, skin, and eyes and it can affect anyone regardless of gender, race, or ethnicity. Misunderstandings, erroneous beliefs, and myths about albinism promote discrimination and violence against people with albinism,” Mulumbi stated.

He condemned the reported hate speech and urged the public to stop circulating the offensive content on social media to protect the victim and respect his human rights.

Mulumbi noted that sharing content with hate speech not only harms the victim psychologically but also increases the vulnerability of persons with albinism and perpetuates stigma and discrimination against them.

“In this instance, the correct action is to report such incidents of hate-related abuse online to the police so that action can be taken against the perpetrators,” he advised.

Mulumbi added that the Commission called on all stakeholders to join hands in raising awareness about persons with albinism and promoting and protecting their human rights.

“Finally, the Commission calls for prompt investigations by police to ensure perpetrators of hate speech against persons with albinism are brought to justice,” he concluded.

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