The Advocates for National Development and Democracy (ANND) has opposed the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill, saying in its current form, represents a direct threat to the fundamental freedoms that underpin democracy, specifically, the critical right to freedom of expression.
ANDD Executive Director, Samuel Banda, says freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic societies.
Mr. Banda is of the view that in any thriving democracy, the ability to freely exchange ideas, critique government actions, and engage in open public discourse is indispensable.
“The Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill, as currently drafted, contains several provisions that pose a serious threat to democratic principles and the provisions in the bill give sweeping powers to government authorities, including the potential for arbitrary arrests and censorship, based on undefined or overly broad interpretations of what constitutes a “cybercrime” or a “security threat,” said Mr. Banda .
In a statement to RCV News in Lusaka today, Mr. Banda said that the bill would allow government to regulate and control online speech under the guise of protecting national security, while in reality, it would be a tool for silencing dissent and stifling the free flow of information.
He said that with the many reservations of the bill, government must withdraw the bill and engage in a genuine, inclusive consultation process with all relevant stakeholders, including civil society, the media, legal experts, and the public, to craft a more balanced, rights-respecting piece of legislation.
Angel Kasabo
