Presidential Political Advisor Levy Ngoma has defended the controversial Cybersecurity and Cybercrimes Bills, stating that those opposing the legislation are often the very individuals responsible for abusing others through digital platforms.
In an interview, Mr. Ngoma said the time has come to address what he termed as “atrocities” committed in the online space, adding that the new laws are necessary to restore order and protect citizens’ reputations.
“The cyberspace has mostly been used to dent other people’s reputations and to disturb order in society. Time has come—and that time is now—to address these atrocities against society,” said Ngoma.
His remarks come amid growing opposition from civil society, legal experts, and media groups, who have vowed to challenge the Cybersecurity and Cybercrimes Bills passed by Parliament in 2024 and now awaiting presidential assent.
Ngoma dismissed criticisms of the bills, arguing that the opposition is not rooted in genuine concern for rights or freedoms but rather in a desire to protect harmful narratives.
“The cries against the bills are not genuine because they want to protect a certain narrative which, if left unchecked, could deliver a very big negative blow to society,” he stated. “These amendments to the cyber laws are welcome and long overdue.”
The proposed laws have stirred nationwide debate, with critics warning that they could be used to stifle dissent, criminalize free speech, and undermine digital rights. However, government officials maintain that the laws are intended to protect citizens and promote responsible use of online platforms.