The UPND Alliance has expressed grave concern over what it terms a “rising wave of digital lawlessness” on social media, including hate speech and explicit threats of violence against Republican President Hakainde Hichilema.
Alliance’s deputy spokesperson Edmond Mbanga Miti Jr, said social media platforms were increasingly being weaponised by individuals hiding behind fake profiles to spread vulgarity, sedition and threats to human life.
Miti stressed that while freedom of expression is constitutionally guaranteed, it does not extend to criminal conduct.
“We must be exceptionally clear, freedom of expression is a fundamental constitutional right, but it is not a license for criminal behavior, nor does political opposition grant immunity from the law,” he said.
The Alliance has called on the newly created Cyber Security Agency to immediately move and clamp down on offenders.
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Miti noted that the Agency has the legal mandate to investigate, trace anonymous accounts, seize electronic evidence, and prosecute cyber offences under Zambian law.
Offences cited include publishing false information, hate speech, incitement to violence, and direct threats of bodily harm all of which carry severe custodial sentences.
“It is time the Agency acts decisively to apprehend these perpetrators and ensure they face the full force of the law.
Setting clear, uncompromising legal examples is essential to send an unmistakable message to all would-be offenders that cyberspace is not a lawless realm,” he said.
Miti warned that unchecked political hate has historically led to instability across Africa.
“Zambia was founded on the bedrock of unity and mutual respect, and we cannot allow the irresponsible actions of a few to jeopardize our peace,” he said.
Meanwhile, the UPND Alliance further appealed to Zambians, especially the youth, to use digital spaces responsibly and to engage in constructive national building.
Francis Chipalo
