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The Zambia Free Press Initiative (ZAFPI) has joined other civil society organizations (CSOs) in opposing the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bills tabled before the National Assembly, warning that their enactment would undermine democracy, human rights, and freedom of expression.
ZAFPI also called for the withdrawal of the Anti-Terrorism Bill, describing it as another legislative move threatening to erode fundamental freedoms.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Lusaka, ZAFPI Founder and Executive Director, Joan Chirwa, criticised the Bills as perpetuating restrictive practices that infringe on human rights, criminalise dissent, and violate citizens’ privacy.
“This would be a devastating blow to the progress we’ve made in promoting democracy and human rights in Zambia,” Chirwa said.
She questioned government’s haste in pushing the Bills through Parliament, urging broader consultations with civil society, media organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure the legislation reflects democratic principles.
“What’s the rush? It’s insane to expect civil society to prepare submissions and presentations in just two days for parliamentary deliberations on such critical matters,” she said.
Chirwa reminded President Hakainde Hichilema and the ruling UPND of their campaign promises to amend the 2021 law to uphold human rights and freedoms.
“To the National Assembly, we urge you to reject these Bills in their current form and demand a transparent and inclusive approach to cybersecurity and cybercrime legislation,” she added, calling on citizens to hold their representatives accountable and protect their rights.
Chapter One Foundation on Monday also joined the outcry, urging the UPND administration to withdraw the Cyber Security, Cyber Crimes, and Anti-Terrorism Bills from Parliament.
The foundation’s Executive Director, Josiah Kalala, expressed concerns over the rushed legislative process, describing it as a continuation of undemocratic practices associated with the previous Patriotic Front (PF) administration.
“Broader consultation is essential to ensure these laws align with democratic values, good governance, and human rights,” Kalala said.
Similarly, Caritas Zambia called for the Bills’ withdrawal to allow comprehensive stakeholder engagement. Caritas Zambia Executive Director Dr. Gabriel Mapulanga emphasized the need to strike a balance between safeguarding national security and protecting civil liberties.
“Without proper public participation, these Bills could lead to unintended consequences that infringe on fundamental rights, including freedom of speech, expression, and privacy,” Mapulanga warned.
He raised concerns about potential misuse of the laws for excessive surveillance, suppression of dissent, and curtailment of free expression under the guise of national security.
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Additionally, Mapulanga highlighted the risk of deterring technological innovation and investment in Zambia’s tech sector while potentially straining international relations critical to trade and partnerships.
Bloggers of Zambia Executive Director Richard Mulonga also criticized the Bills, calling for their withdrawal to address constitutional irregularities and procedural shortcomings.
“The process to enact these Bills has raised significant concerns about transparency, inclusivity, and adherence to constitutional principles,” Mulonga said.
He urged Zambians to remain vigilant and engage in protecting their digital rights while calling on the government to realign the Bills with best practices for a just and balanced digital future.
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