02 May 2025

The recently enacted Cyber Security Act in Zambia has ignited fierce backlash from opposition parties and legal experts, who argue that it represents an effort to entrench dictatorship under President Hakainde Hichilema’s United Party for National Development.

The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has raised alarms about the potential ramifications of the legislation, claiming it infringes upon fundamental rights and undermines the democratic ideals enshrined in the constitution.

The new law grants authorities the power to intercept and surveil a wide range of electronic communications, including phone calls, emails, messages, and streamed content. Individuals found guilty of violating these provisions may face hefty fines or imprisonment for a period ranging from five to fifteen years.
Lungisani Zulu, the president of LAZ, voiced grave concerns regarding the regulation’s impact on press freedom and the independence of journalism in the country. He highlighted that the Zambia Cyber Security Agency is now centralized under the direct supervision of the president, rather than functioning as an independent entity, raising fears of political abuse.

“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,” said Zulu.

LAZ had previously urged the government to withdraw the bill from the National Assembly and engage in consultations with various stakeholders. Although the government initially appeared amenable to these suggestions, Zulu noted that the ensuing consultation process was inadequate and failed to address concerns raised by stakeholders, including LAZ.

In defense of the Cyber Security Act, Spuki Mulemwa, the Western Province coordinator for the ruling party, characterized the law as a progressive measure necessary to protect citizens from rampant cyber attacks allegedly perpetrated by disgruntled individuals and elements of society seeking to incite regime change.
“We expect the new Cyber Security Act to bring normalcy and sanity in cyberspace, as it’s a necessary tool for the security and protection of citizens,” said Mulemwa.

As the debate continues, the implementation of the Cyber Security Act raises critical questions about the balance between safeguarding national security and preserving individual freedoms and democratic principles in Zambia.