Press Statement: On Freedom of Expression and Opinion

The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) acknowledges the findings of the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression, Irene Khan, following her recent assessment of Zambia’s human rights landscape. While the government has made strides in promoting free expression through legal reforms, challenges persist, including the slow pace of reform, political intolerance, and the selective application of laws to silence dissent. JCTR calls for comprehensive legal reforms, full implementation of the Access to Information Act, alignment with international human rights standards, and strengthening of democratic institutions. Safeguarding freedom of expression is essential for democratic governance, transparency, and national development.