Police Officer Arrested For Defamation

In another concerning case, a Zambian citizen and member of the police force has been arrested for ‘defaming’ President Lungu.

Central Province Commissioner of Police, Joel Njase, has confirmed the development to ZANIS in an interview and named the officer as Mutakela Manyando of Serenje Police Station.

The Police Commissioner explained that the officer allegedly stated that the “One Zambia One Nation” slogan does not exist and that there is no President,’ which is translated as defamatory to the head of state.

Mr Njase said once instructions are received from the DPP, the officer will be charged under CAP 87 Section 69 of the Laws of Zambia for defamation of the head of state and will appear in court.

His is one in a string of arrests over seemingly benign or understandably critical remarks about the government. Many commentators have argued that the right to freedom of speech in Zambia is coming under increasing pressure from the Patriotic Front government – much like it has done in neighbouring country’s such as Zimbabwe and Uganda.