LUSAKA - The UPND Alliance has called on the Cyber Security Agency and other law enforcement agencies to urgently clamp down on people using social media to threaten, abuse and incite violence against President Hakainde Hichilema.
UPND Alliance Deputy Spokesperson Edmond Miti said the growing use of social media to spread hate, vulgar language and threats of violence was becoming a danger to national unity and peace.
Mr Miti explained that while freedom of expression is a constitutional right, it does not give citizens a licence or "passport" to engage in criminal conduct online.
He said political differences should be expressed through the exchange of ideas and policies rather than threats, hate speech and other forms of abuse.
“The UPND Alliance notes with grave concern the rising wave of digital lawlessness and online abuse across our nation,” Mr Miti said.
He said the establishment of the Cyber Security Agency means Zambia now has a specialised institution mandated to deal with cyber-related offences.
Mr Miti has therefore urged the Agency to use its powers to investigate and trace people hiding behind fake or anonymous social media accounts and ensure those found on the wrong side of the law are prosecuted.
He said offences such as spreading false information, hate speech, incitement to violence and threats of bodily harm should never be treated as ordinary political commentary.
“It is time the Agency acts decisively to apprehend these perpetrators and ensure they face the full force of the law,” Mr Miti said.
Mr Miti has also called on the Cyber Security Agency to make its reporting channels, including hotlines and online complaint platforms, easily accessible to members of the public.
The UPND Alliance Deputy Spokesperson further urged the Agency to embark on nationwide public awareness campaigns so that citizens understand the difference between protected political criticism and criminal online conduct.
Source: Kalemba | By: George Musonda