August Polls: Zambia Army warns against abuse of social media, Ai tools

The Zambia Army has cautioned members of the general public against the reckless abuse of social media platforms and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to generate and disseminate content that ridicules, defames office bearers.

Zambia Army Spokesperson, Colonel Sydney Mwewa, expressed concern over the misuse of AI tools to generate and disseminate content that ridicules, defames, or undermines state institutions and constitutionally appointed office bearers.

In a statement issued in Lusaka, Mwewa said it had been observed that misleading AI-generated videos were being circulated on some social media platforms which have the potential to incite soldiers and threaten the peace and stability of the country.

He further noted that during election periods, certain ill-intentioned individuals who lacked the nation’s interest at heart had been known to drag the Army into active politics.

“The Zambia Army reiterates, in the strongest terms, that it remains a disciplined, apolitical, and professional institution, mandated by the Constitution of the Republic of Zambia to preserve the nation’s sovereignty, protect its territorial integrity, and uphold constitutional order,” Mwewa stated.

“In view of the prevailing national climate, this is a sensitive period that calls for sobriety, unity, and responsible conduct,” Mwewa stated.

He urged all citizens to exercise caution, verify information prior to sharing, and desist from any online conduct that may incite division, public disorder, or disrespect toward national institutions and leadership.

“In this regard, the Zambia Army warns all generators and conduits being used to circulate such digital misconduct that its vigilance is uncompromising. The institution’s eyes extend beyond their reach, its boots stamp beyond their feet, and consequently, the culprits are warned that their days of anonymity and impunity are numbered,” Mwewa warned.

He stated that the law shall take its course without fear or favour.

Mwewa urged all citizens to jealously guard the peace, national cohesion, and the integrity of institutions that safeguard the Republic.

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