CSO’s call for Cyber, Terrorism Bills withdrawal, citing threats to human rights, democracy
A COALITION of civil society organisations have expressed deep concern over the Cyber Security, Cyber Crimes, and Anti-Terrorism Bills currently before Parliament and are calling on government to withdraw these Bills and subject them to broader consultation and review.
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The organisations include; Alliance for Community Action, Transparency International – Zambia, Council of Churches in Zambia, Bloggers of Zambia, Zambia Council for Social Development, PANOS Institute Southern Africa and Media Institute of Southern Africa Zambia (MISA).
The organisations argue that while the government’s intention to enhance national security is understandable, the proposed legislation poses significant threats to fundamental human rights and democratic governance.
They shared that these bills will affect the future of the people’s freedoms, privacy, and
ability to speak out.
In a joint statement signed by Chapter One Foundation executive director Josiah Kalala, the civil society groups highlighted several provisions within the Bills that could potentially infringe upon constitutional rights.
“An analysis of these bills reveal several provisions that, if enacted, would not only fail constitutionalitytests by their very text but also pose significant risks to fundamental human rights by their application,” Kalala said.
The CSOs expressed their disappointment in the UPND administration, which they believe came into power on promises of strengthening democracy and human rights.
“Regrettably, the approach taken with these bills reflects a troubling continuity of practices that were heavily criticisedunder the PF administration. The rushed and non-inclusive process mirrors the PF’s push for similar legislation, which was rightly condemned for its disregard for transparency and public participation,” Kalala said.
He added that the enactment of the Cyber Crimes and Cyber Security Bills under the pretext of addressing critical issues while at the same time having provisions that undermine human rights sets a dangerous precedent.
Kalala stated that Zambia deserved better than recycled authoritarian practices disguised as
progressive security reforms.
The CSOs called on Members of Parliament to fulfil their duty to the Zambian people.
“We call on MPs to write to the Speaker to establish a Tribunal as provided for under Article 27 of the Constitution to independently assess the implications of these bills.”
“Such an assessmentis critical to ensure that any legislative action reflects constitutional values and does not erode our hard-won freedoms,” Kalala explained.
The Civil Society rallied the citizens to read the bills and voice out any lacunae.
“To the citizens of Zambia, this is your fight as much as ours. It is our family, our friends,
neighbours and community members who continue to be detained for long periods, often
away from their communities for expressing displeasure and discontent with the
government.”
“These bills will shape the future of your freedoms, your privacy, and your
ability to speak out. We urge you to read the proposed legislation and make your voices
heard,” read the statement.
The CSOs urged citizens to call their MPs, demand accountability, and remind them that their mandate comes from them.
“Let them know that laws protecting Zambia’s security must also protect Zambia’s democracy and rights,” shared Kalala…https://kalemba.news/local/2024/12/03/csos-call-for-cyber-terrorism-bills-withdrawal-citing-threats-to-human-rights-democracy/
By Moses Makwaya
Kalemba December 3, 2024
CSO’s call for Cyber, Terrorism Bills withdrawal, citing threats to human rights, democracy
