LAZ condemns cyber acts, says they undermine democracy
THE LAW Association of Zambian (LAZ) has raised concerns over the potential consequences of the cyber security and cyber crimes acts, asserting that they infringe upon fundamental rights and democratic principles guaranteed by the constitution.
LAZ believes that the proposed measures are incompatible with the nation’s values of good governance, democracy and constitutionalism as outlined in Article 8 of the constitution.
According to LAZ president Lungisani Zulu, the newly enacted cyber laws contain numerous provisions that severely restrict the rights and freedoms of Zambian citizens.
Zulu said these laws also hinder the press’ ability to operate freely and independently, and they pose a significant threat to democracy which was forged through the hard-fought battles of the founding leaders.
In a statement, Zulu stated that by failing to provide exceptions for journalists and businesses to freely disseminate important information on matters of public safety, health, economic stability, national security, and international stability, these laws effectively criminalise crucial reporting and communication without state permission.
He warned that the localisation of the Zambia Cyber Security Agency under the direct control of the President, instead of an independent body, raises significant governance concerns.
“When combined with the broad definition of ‘critical information’ in the Cyber Security Act, there is a significant risk that this agency could be used for political suppression rather than national protection, undermining the very democracy and freedoms it was ostensibly established to safeguard,” he said.
“The right to free expression and a free press are fundamental human rights enshrined in our Constitution and as such, they must be upheld and protected at all costs.”
Zulu said article 20 guarantees the freedom to hold and communicate opinions without interference, to receive and impart ideas and information without obstruction, and to enjoy the freedom of the press without any law infringing upon this right.
He highlighted that these provisions if misused, could be weaponised to silence dissenting voices under the guise of national security or protecting public safety, thereby threatening the core democratic principles that the Zambian constitution upholds.
Zulu further underscored the efforts made by LAZ to raise awareness about the potential dangers of the Cyber security and Cyber Crimes Bills before they were enacted into law.
He noted that LAZ had called on government to withdraw the Bills from the National Assembly and hold meaningful consultations with stakeholders to address the numerous concerns that had been raised.
“Although the government initially appeared receptive to these suggestions, the subsequent consultation process was insufficient and did not adequately address the concerns of stakeholders, including LAZ,” Zulu added.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba April 22, 2026
