Introduction
The Lizu Community Network, a youth-led and community-driven organization, has always stood at the forefront of championing digital rights and inclusive governance. Digital freedom is not just a luxury in today’s interconnected world—it is a fundamental backbone of democracy, innovation, and progress. Yet, the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill threatens to erode these values. This is not just a technical issue; it is a human rights issue, a governance issue, and an economic issue. The time to act is now. The Zambian government must honor its promise to repeal and replace this regressive legislation.
Analyzing the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill Sections 33 and 34: A Step Toward Mass Surveillance?
The provisions for the disclosure and collection of traffic data give undue power to law enforcement officers, enabling them to issue written notices for traffic data disclosure without clear limitations on scope or time. While the collection of such data ostensibly requires a court order, the lack of safeguards on data storage, erasure, and oversight raises red flags. This opens the door to mass surveillance, infringes on privacy rights, and creates a chilling effect on digital freedoms.
Unchecked surveillance is not just a threat to individual privacy; it threatens Zambia’s economic potential. Tech companies and innovators thrive in environments that respect user privacy and the rule of law. By allowing intrusive and unregulated data collection, the government risks scaring away foreign investment, stifling innovation, and further widening the digital divide.
Where is the Promise of Reform?
The UPND government, in opposition then, promised Zambians a repeal and replacement of this draconian legislation. Yet, in power, this promise remains unfulfilled. Citizens, particularly the youth, demand accountability. We are not asking for favors; we are demanding the fulfillment of a promise—a promise that aligns with the democratic principles the UPND claims to uphold.
We must remind the government that digital rights are human rights. The internet is not just a tool for communication but a platform for free expression, activism, innovation, and development. By undermining these rights, the government betrays its commitment to democracy and inclusivity.
Below are the tweets by H.E President Hakainde Hichilema before he became President.
The Way Forward
The analysis by Chapter One Foundation (https://shorturl.at/a8FwD highlights critical flaws in the current legislation while acknowledging progressive steps like the criminalization of revenge pornography and online gender-based violence. However, these advancements cannot overshadow the broader dangers posed by the Bill. What we need is comprehensive reform—legislation that protects citizens, empowers innovation, and aligns with Zambia’s democratic aspirations.
We call on the UPND government to:
Repeal and Replace the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill: Draft new legislation through an open, participatory, and transparent process that incorporates input from civil society, tech experts, and marginalized communities.
Ensure Judicial Oversight: Traffic data collection and surveillance measures must have clear limits and be subject to robust judicial review to prevent abuse.
Promote Digital Freedom: Enact laws that protect digital rights, foster innovation, and create a conducive environment for technological and economic development.
Uphold Promises to the Youth: The youth of Zambia are watching. We demand leadership that respects and amplifies our voices, not policies that suppress them.
Below are Youths in Chipata Posing with demand placards during a digital advocacy Training
Conclusion
Digital rights are not negotiable. They are the foundation of a free, inclusive, and progressive Zambia. The Lizu Community Network stands in solidarity with Chapter One Foundation and all Zambians fighting for their digital freedom. We urge the government to act now—to repeal and replace the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill and honor the democratic values it promised to uphold.
Zambia deserves better. The youth deserve better. Let’s build a future where digital freedom and innovation thrive, not a society shackled by surveillance and fear.
while cybersecurity is important, it should not come at the expense of fundamental freedoms. We need a balanced approach that prioritizes both security and individual rights for a democratic society in Zambia and beyond
"Skeiver Him"