Cabinet Approves Measures To Amend Public Order Act

Cabinet on Thursday approved the introduction of a bill to parliament which would amend the controversial Public Order Act – a key manifesto promise of the UPND government. 

In a statement to media, Minister for Information Chushi Kasanda said the amendment was necessary in order to develop a legal framework that regulates public assemblies, processions and meetings, anchored on constitutionally guaranteed, fundamental rights and freedoms. 

The Public Order Act is a piece of colonial legislation dating back to the time of British rule in Zambia. In recent years, the act has been criticised for being unfair and undemocratic, particularly under the Patriotic Front government, when it was used to block and disband rallies by opposition parties.

While in opposition, President Hakainde Hichilema promised to reform the act. The difficulty lies in balancing the rights of Zambians to hold protests and political rallies against concerns for public safety. 

Yesterday, the government made its strongest step yet towards reforming the act, with Ms Kasanda stating, “In view of subsequent public outcry and court proceedings over the provisions and implementation of the Public Order Act, the New Dawn administration has opted to review the Act in its entirety and come up with sound legislation which will not only stand the test of time, but also one that promotes the public good.”