ZCLU CALLS FOR PROTECTION OF FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION

THE Zambian Civil Liberties Union (ZCLU) says it is deeply concerned about freedom of expression in Zambia under the new dawn administration.

Executive Director Isaac Mwanza said while his organisation welcomed the promises made by President Hakainde Hichilema regarding the promotion of freedom of expression during the 2021 elections, recent events have raised red flags about the commitment to uphold these fundamental rights.

“Firstly, we are concerned with the growing trend of labeling dissenting voices as crimHe inal or treasonous or seditious. The statements made by Minister Gary Nkombo and other senior government officials, in response to remarks by former President Lungu, risk stifling freedom of expression. We want to remind the administration that similar sentiments were expressed by President Hichilema himself in the past were respected and attracted no condemnation or police action.

Secondly, the recent detention and charging of Raphael Nakacinda for his remarks regarding pre-marked ballot papers is a regressive step for freedom of speech. Allegations of electoral malpractice have been made by various political leaders in the past, including President Hichilema himself. None of them faced charges or suppression for expressing their concerns. It is imperative that the government ensures that individuals are free to express their opinions without fear of reprisal, especially in a budding democracy like Zambia,”Mr Mwanza said.

He said any action taken against dissenting voices would send a worrying message that the UPND regime was not as tolerant as its predecessors.

Mr Mwanza said the foundation of a robust democracy lied in the ability of its citizens to express opinions without fear of retribution, fostering an environment where dialogue and discourse can flourish.

“We urge the government to refrain from overreacting to opposing viewpoints, as it sets a dangerous precedent for the future of democracy in Zambia,”Mr Mwanza said.