On 5th March 2025, during the swearing-in ceremony of Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Director General Daphne Chabu and Human Rights Commission (HRC) Director General Mbololwa Wamunyima, President Hakainde Hichilema emphasized his commitment to fostering due process and online professionalism. He dismissed claims that he is restricting the operations of Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) and reaffirmed his dedication to ensuring thorough investigations before arrests are made. This approach aims to prevent unnecessary detentions without bond or bail when applicable, aligning with principles of due process and human rights. President Hichilema’s stance marks a significant departure from past practices, where arbitrary arrests and prolonged pretrial detentions were prevalent, as detailed in the previous human rights reports and the 2017 arrest of Hichilema himself on charges of treason. This shift can signal a positive development for civil society, fostering an environment where citizens can trust that law enforcement agencies operate fairly and justly, if it is indeed applied by law enforcement agencies.
Furthermore, President Hichilema called for professionalism in cyberspace, stressing that it is currently being misused. He called on the Human Rights Commission to take an active role in promoting responsible online behaviour. This emphasis on online professionalism is a commendable initiative that can significantly enhance the enabling environment for civil society in Zambia, encouraging constructive dialogue and reducing harmful behaviours like misinformation and cyberbullying. Currently, Zambia lacks specific legislation defining “online professionalism” for civil society and activists, leading to uncertainty and potentially hindering advocacy efforts. Without clear guidelines, activists may fear repercussions, leading to self-censorship and a diminished capacity to hold authorities accountable.