Release ZNBC journalist, Mukuka – Amnesty International

AMNESTY International has called on the Zambian government to immediately and unconditionally release Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) journalist MacPherson Mukuka, saying his prosecution under the Cyber Crimes Act threatens media freedom and investigative journalism ahead of next month’s general election.

The international human rights organisation said Mr Mukuka’s arrest over social media posts raised serious concerns about the application of the Cyber Crimes Act of 2025 and its potential to stifle freedom of expression.

In a statement, Amnesty International Regional Director Tigere Chagutah said the journalist’s prosecution sent a worrying signal to the media fraternity just weeks before Zambia goes to the polls on August 13.

“MacPherson Mukuka’s arrest raises serious concerns about the application of Zambia’s Cyber Crimes Act and its potentially chilling effect on investigative journalism. Its impact is especially dangerous coming just weeks ahead of Zambia’s general elections,” Mr Chagutah said.

He accused the authorities of using criminal laws to intimidate journalists carrying out their professional duties.

“By charging him under Cyber Crimes laws, the authorities are misusing the criminal justice system to intimidate and harass journalists simply for doing their work,” Mr Chagutah said.

He called for the immediate withdrawal of all charges against Mr Mukuka.

“Authorities must immediately and unconditionally release MacPherson Mukuka and drop all charges against him. They must ensure that the media can report on issues of public interest without fear of reprisals, in line with Zambia’s international human rights obligations,” Mr Chagutah said.

He also urged the government to respect freedom of expression and media freedom.

“Authorities must end their attacks on journalists and uphold the human rights of everyone, including the right to freedom of expression and media freedom in the country,” he said.

Amnesty International also expressed concern over the summoning of Millennium TV journalist Rogers Mwimba by police following the publication of a video showing patrons at a nightclub dancing to an opposition campaign song.

“Amnesty International is also closely following the ongoing police harassment of Millennium TV journalist Rogers Mwimba, whom the police have summoned for questioning after he posted a video of revellers at a night club dancing to an opposition campaign song,” Mr Chagutah said.