Ex-President Lungu condemns cybersecurity laws as modern colonialism

Former President Edgar Lungu has condemned the use of cybersecurity laws to spy, silence, or suppress citizens, describing it as the worst form of modern-day colonialism.

While acknowledging the importance of protecting the country from digital threats, Lungu emphasized the need to distinguish between national security and oppression.

In a Facebook post dated May 27, 2025, Lungu alleged that Zambia was now governed by laws that betray the freedoms fought for by the country’s forefathers—freedoms commemorated annually on May 25 during Africa Freedom Day.

He said current laws intimidated journalists and citizens into silence, while activists were arrested and opposition voices censored.

“Let me remind you that the true spirit of Africa Freedom Day calls us to speak out not only against the colonial chains of yesterday but also the chains of injustice and oppression that we face today,” Lungu stated.

He reminded fellow opposition leaders that they were not enemies of the state but rather the conscience of the nation.

Lungu stressed the importance of defending constitutional rights and speaking out against actions that threatened Zambia’s democracy and the freedoms of its people.

“Let us continue to call for reforms that protect free expression, restore dignity to public institutions, and ensure that the government of the day upholds the rule of law,” he said.

Addressing young people, Lungu said they were the backbone of any country and the rightful inheritors of not just Zambia, but Africa and the world.

“You should not let anyone make you believe that your voices and opinions are small, because freedom belongs to you, too. Mwemisepela, this day should not be reduced to a mere public holiday. Let it be a call to action to reject oppression and injustice in all its forms,” he said.

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