DANGEROUS TREND
IN a democratic society, the freedom to express one's opinions, especially by religious leaders, is not just a right but a cornerstone of democracy.
The recent incident involving the summoning of Catholic priest Fr Chewe Mukosa by the Zambia Police highlights the delicate balance between free speech and state authority.
Fr Mukosa's Easter homily, in which he candidly addressed the hardships faced by many Zambians and criticized the government's handling of the situation, sparked a wave of solidarity and condemnation of the government's actions.
Former President Edgar Lungu rightly pointed out that suppressing the voices of religious leaders undermines the principles of democracy. He emphasized the importance of allowing diverse perspectives, even those critical of the government, to be heard without fear of reprisal. Such sentiments echo the fundamental values of free speech and tolerance in a pluralistic society.
The outcry from various segments of society, including civil rights activists like Laura Miti and political leaders like Sean Tembo, underscores the widespread belief in the necessity of protecting free speech as a bulwark against tyranny.
The attempt to silence Fr Mukosa for simply speaking the truth resonated deeply with many who see it as an affront to the democratic ideals they hold dear.
The decision by the Zambia Police to withdraw the summons against Fr Mukosa is a positive step, but it should serve as a reminder to the government of the need to uphold and respect the rights enshrined in the constitution, including the freedom of speech.
While the police have a duty to investigate criminal activities, they must do so within the bounds of the law and with due regard for civil liberties.
It is encouraging to see leaders like Nevers Mumba cautioning against draconian measures targeting the Catholic Church. Such wisdom acknowledges the importance of fostering an environment where diverse voices can coexist peacefully and contribute to the democratic discourse.
Moving forward, it is imperative for the Zambian government to reaffirm its commitment to free speech and actively promote a culture of open dialogue and tolerance.
By respecting the rights of individuals to express their opinions, even when critical of the government, Zambia can strengthen its democratic institutions and ensure that the voices of its citizens are heard and valued.
The incident involving Fr Mukosa Chewe serves as a poignant reminder of the intrinsic link between free speech and democracy.
As Zambia navigates its democratic journey, it must remain steadfast in its commitment to upholding the principles of free expression and protecting the rights of all its citizens, including religious leaders like Fr Mukosa, who play a vital role in shaping public discourse and holding those in power accountable.
PURSUING JUSTICE AND EQUITY WITH INTERGRITY