The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has announced plans to take legal action against the government over newly enacted cyber laws, which it says infringe on citizens’ rights and freedoms, threaten press freedom, and risk undermining the country’s democratic values.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, LAZ President Lungisani Zulu said the association views the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Acts recently signed by President Hakainde Hichilema as a serious threat to civil liberties. He argued that the laws expose journalists, businesses, and ordinary citizens to potential criminal prosecution for sharing or possessing information that authorities may deem sensitive.
“Our position is that numerous provisions of the newly enacted cyber law infringe upon the rights and freedoms of citizens, hinder a free press, and have the potential to undermine the cherished democracy in our country, Zambia, which our founding leaders fought so hard to preserve,” said Zulu.
He cited specific concerns with provisions in the law that criminalize the unauthorized sharing or possession of data related to public health, safety, or the economy including by media organizations or business entities. LAZ warned that the laws could be used to arrest and prosecute individuals or institutions for merely reporting or commenting on matters of national interest.
“These laws, as they stand, open the door to abuse. Citizens could be arrested for circulating or being in possession of information the state considers critical, even if it serves public interest,” Zulu added.
LAZ has vowed to challenge the legislation in court, arguing that it violates constitutional rights and international standards on digital rights and freedom of expression.
The government has defended the cyber laws as necessary for enhancing national security and protecting citizens in the digital space, insisting that they include legal safeguards such as requiring court-issued warrants for data interception. However, LAZ maintains that several provisions remain overly broad, vague, and susceptible to misuse.
The development has intensified ongoing national debate over digital regulation and human rights, with civil society groups, media advocates, and legal experts calling for the repeal or amendment of contentious sections of the law.