Cyber Bill Fails Basic Human Rights - Amnesty International

Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for Southern Africa Muleya Mwananyanda has authored a critique of the recently enacted Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act.

The article, which was featured on South Africa’s Daily Maverick, sets out concerns that the new law could be used to “allow for blanket internet shutdowns and suppression of free speech, and is very much susceptible to abuse of power.”

Mwananyanda notes some of the admirable stated aims behind introducing the legislation in terms of protecting citizens from abuse. However, it identifies some of the “problematic provisions” that means it could actually be a tool to target certain people.

Looking at examples from elsewhere, Mwananyanda points to countries such as Ethiopia and Zimbabwe where similar laws “have been used to suppress dissent and protect and shield the ruling political elites from public scrutiny.” She also notes the timing of the new law, coming just ahead of elections.

“The new law in Zambia contains provisions that are incompatible with domestic, regional and international human rights standards,” Mwananyanda explains.

She concludes by stating, “It is not too late for lawmakers to amend some of the provisions of this law so that they are in line with Zambia’s human rights obligations, both domestically and globally.”

The article comes after five Zambian CSO announced they are petitioning the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act in the courts: Chapter One Foundation, Alliance for Community Action, Bloggers of Zambia, GEARS Initiative Zambia and Peoples’ Action for Accountability and Good Governance in Zambia. The groups are challenging the bill on the grounds that it is unconstitutional.

Mwananyanda’s full piece is available to read on the Daily Maverick website.