Zambia lauded for Access to Information Law
By Masauso Mkwayaya
United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression, IRENE KHAN says Zambia has made progress in promoting freedom of expression.
Ms. KHAN has also commended Zambia for adopting the Access to Information Act.
She was speaking during a press briefing in Lusaka, where she shared findings on the status of freedom of opinion and expression in Zambia.
Ms. KHAN said through her engagements with various stakeholders, she has been informed that violent attacks on journalists and the closure of media houses are no longer happening, unlike in recent years.
She has also praised Zambia for the decriminalisation of the Defamation of the President Law.
Ms. KHAN has however urged Government to amend other laws that continue to restrict freedom of expression.
And Ms. KHAN said she is disturbed by the rising disinformation and smear campaigns on -online platforms generated by politicians, including those from the opposition, who seek to manipulate public opinion, heighten tensions, and create confusion.
She has urged politicians to exercise responsibility and not mislead the public; as such acts are prohibited under international law.
