Event Summary
The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has taken a significant step by petitioning the Constitutional Court to challenge various provisions within the recently enacted Cyber Crimes and Cyber Laws. LAZ argues that these laws are unconstitutional because they infringe upon fundamental individual rights and freedoms, including freedom of expression, speech, conscience, association, the right to hold opinions, and freedom of the press. These rights are explicitly guaranteed by the Republican Constitution of Zambia. The legal action was initiated by LAZ President who asserts that the Cyber Laws contravene or are likely to contravene the rights of LAZ and its members as enshrined in Articles 17, 19, 20 (1), 20 (2), and 21 (1) of the Constitution. Mr. Zulu believes that numerous provisions within these laws are inconsistent with constitutional principles because they undermine essential freedoms as well as the right to privacy, and are not reasonably justifiable in a democratic society. This legal challenge highlights the ongoing tension between government legislation aimed at regulating the digital space and the imperative to protect civil liberties in a democratic society. The outcome of this petition is crucial as it could set a precedent for the protection of an enabling environment for civil society and individual rights in Zambia’s digital landscape. Furthermore, there was little to no consultation of CSO and other stakeholders before enacting the bill into law in April 2025.