Reported by: S. Ernest.
Date: 20th January, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambo Haimbe, has reaffirmed President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and promoting human rights.
Speaking during a meeting with Irene Khan, the UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the rights to freedom of opinion and expression, Mr. Haimbe emphasized the government’s deliberate efforts to foster a governance framework rooted in democratic principles.
One of the significant strides in this direction, he noted, is the repeal of the criminal defamation of the President, a law that previously impeded citizens’ rights to freedom of opinion and expression.
“This reform is a demonstration of our administration’s dedication to ensuring that all citizens can exercise their freedoms without fear,” Mr. Haimbe stated.
The Minister also highlighted the significance of Ms. Khan’s 10-day mission to Zambia, describing it as an opportunity for the country to receive an independent assessment of its human rights landscape.
“This visit is a valuable chance for Zambia to engage with an impartial perspective on how we can further strengthen the protection and promotion of human rights. We are committed to granting Ms. Khan unrestricted access to all key stakeholders,” he assured.
Ms. Khan, who arrived in Zambia at the invitation of the government, outlined her agenda, which includes discussions on recent legislative reforms and exploring ways to reinforce Zambia’s human rights framework.
She expressed her willingness to collaborate with the government to identify challenges and propose practical solutions.
“I am here to engage in open dialogue with the government and other stakeholders. My mission is to review recent legislative developments and provide recommendations on how Zambia can enhance its human rights commitments,” Ms. Khan said.
She added that her findings and recommendations will be formally presented to the government at the conclusion of her visit.
The UN Special Rapporteur’s visit underscores the New Dawn Government openness to constructive engagement with international human rights mechanisms and its aspiration to align with global best practices in governance and freedom of expression.
Video credit: ZNBC
United Nations Human Rights
Human Rights Commission- Zambia
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Zambia
The Agency