The recent arrest of Zambian journalist Thomas Zgambo, reportedly for publishing content critical of government officials, violates his human rights.
Development Diaries reports that Zgambo was detained on 16 October while having a meal at a mall in Lusaka, with no official charges filed against him, according to Amnesty International.
This action by Zambian authorities contradicts the country’s constitutional commitment to freedom of expression and press freedom, and it highlights an alarming trend of targeting journalists for fulfilling their professional duties.
Journalism plays a critical role in any democratic society by ensuring transparency, accountability, and the free flow of information, and Zambia’s constitution guarantees the right to freedom of expression and media freedom, both of which are fundamental human rights protected under international law.
Arresting Zgambo without charges suggests an ongoing campaign of intimidation and harassment against journalists who dare to report on issues that challenge those in power.
This is not the first time Zambian authorities have targeted Zgambo. He has faced repeated arrests, including sedition charges earlier this year, which followed an article calling for transparency concerning a rental property allegedly linked to President Hakainde Hichilema.
The use of sedition charges to silence journalists reflects an authoritarian approach that stands in stark contrast to the president’s recent declarations of commitment to press freedom.
This development only further erodes public trust in the government’s stated commitment to human rights and democracy.
It also sends a message that critical reporting will not be tolerated and this poses a significant threat to Zambia’s democratic framework and its ability to foster a free and independent press, which is essential for ensuring government accountability.
In its Freedom in the World 2024 report, Freedom House scored Zambia 54 out of a possible 100, describing the country as ‘partly free’.
Development Diaries calls on the Zambian authorities to immediately release Zgambo and drop all charges related to his journalistic work.
The continued harassment and detention of journalists for exercising their right to free expression must end, and Zambia must honour its constitutional and international obligations to protect press freedom.
Source: Amnesty International
Photo source: AP/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi
