Amnesty International urges Zambia to halt "authoritarian practices" before elections

Amnesty International has called on Zambian presidential candidates to commit to reversing escalating "authoritarian practices" that are undermining human rights in the country. With general elections approaching, the human rights organization expressed concern over the current trajectory, urging candidates to prioritize the protection of fundamental freedoms.

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In 2021, Zambians voted in the hope of change after promises to respect human rights. Instead, authorities have resorted to the known playbook of using the law to criminalize peaceful dissent and silence independent media.

According to an Amnesty International report, Zambia has intensified repression in the lead-up to the elections. This crackdown targets the rights to peaceful assembly, association, expression, and freedom of the press. The organization attributes this to "broad and vague laws passed hastily," which it argues are designed to limit public participation and stifle dissent.

"In 2021, Zambians voted in the hope of change after promises to respect human rights. Instead, authorities have resorted to the known playbook of using the law to criminalize peaceful dissent and silence independent media," stated Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International's regional director for East and Southern Africa. He added that this situation leads to reduced accountability for human rights violations, erosion of the rule of law, and increased barriers to accessing information.

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The intention seems to be the use of these powers selectively to limit the work of civil society organizations, weakening their fundamental role in promoting transparency, accountability, and human rights.

Amnesty International also highlighted concerns regarding a draft law to regulate NGOs, which has been stalled in Parliament since 2025. The organization fears this legislation could grant the executive "excessive powers" over NGOs, potentially limiting their crucial role in promoting transparency and human rights. Furthermore, cyber laws enacted last year have reportedly been used to arrest critics, journalists, and opposition politicians, contributing to a deteriorating environment for freedom of expression. Amnesty International urges the next government to repeal or amend laws that conflict with Zambia's constitution and international human rights commitments.

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the next Government should prioritize the repeal or amendment of laws that are incompatible with Zambia's Constitution and the country's international human rights obligations.