LAZ PLANS COURT CHALLENGE OVER CONTROVERSIAL CYBER LAWS.
The FOX Newspaper
In response to what it calls a serious threat to constitutional freedoms, The Law Association of Zambia – LAZ has announced plans to petition the High Court over the controversial Cyber Security Act No. 3 and Cyber Crimes Act No. 4 of 2025.
The association argues that the new laws go too far, criminalizing:
• The possession or sharing of public interest data without government approval,
• Media reports the state finds misleading,
• And even discussions of ongoing investigations.
LAZ believes these provisions not only violate freedom of expression and press freedom, but also open the door to political abuse.
“Numerous provisions of the newly enacted cyber laws 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,” said LAZ President Lungisani Zulu, in the official statement dated April 21st, 2025.
Another major concern is the placement of the powerful Zambia Cyber Security Agency under the direct control of the President, which LAZ says undermines accountability and could lead to politically motivated enforcement.
“This significantly heightens the risk of cyber security being used as a tool for political control rather than national protection,” the statement adds.
The Legal Battle Ahead
LAZ now plans to challenge these laws in court, arguing that they clash with constitutional guarantees of free expression, press freedom, and public accountability. If successful, this legal challenge could reshape how digital freedoms are protected in Zambia moving forward.
LAZ PLANS COURT CHALLENGE OVER CONTROVERSIAL CYBER LAWS
