Zambian journalist Thomas Allan Zgambo has been arrested in Lusaka without formal charges following a critical article about officials. Human rights organization Amnesty International demands his immediate release, emphasizing the constitutional protections for media freedom. Zgambo’s arrest reflects a worrying trend of harassment against journalists in Zambia, conflicting with the government’s recent commitments to press freedom.
In a troubling incident in Lusaka, Zambia, journalist Thomas Allan Zgambo has been arrested, sparking alarm over press freedom. Amnesty International’s Deputy Director, Vongai Chikwanda, demands his immediate release, emphasizing that journalism is not a crime but a vital part of a democratic society. She reminds authorities that the Zambian Constitution protects freedom of expression and mandates they respect international human rights obligations, allowing journalists to operate without fear of reprisal. Zgambo, who contributes to the Zambia Whistleblower website, was taken into custody on October 16 while dining at a mall. Authorities have not formally charged him, yet his arrest coincides with the publication of an article critical of government officials. This troubling scenario arises just days after President Hakainde Hichilema publicly recommitted to supporting press freedom. The history of harassment toward Zgambo paints a concerning picture of censorship. Previously, he faced intimidation, including an August arrest related to sedition charges for reporting on a rental property tied to the president. The stakes are high; if found guilty, Zgambo could endure a lengthy prison sentence. In fact, this year alone, he has been detained twice for his daring journalistic work, which echoes the risks faced by many reporters. Amnesty International’s recognitions of rights violations highlight a grave concern for media operations in Zambia. “Zambian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release journalist Thomas Allan Zgambo and stop targeting him simply for doing his job,” Chikwanda states clearly. This arrest challenges Zambia’s proclaimed commitment to media freedom, demanding immediate attention and action from the authorities.
The arrest of Thomas Allan Zgambo draws attention to ongoing issues of press freedom in Zambia. His detention follows the publication of critical articles about government officials, which raises concerns over the safety of journalists expressing dissenting opinions. This incident comes on the heels of President Hichilema’s promises to uphold press freedom, illustrating a stark contradiction in the government’s actions versus its rhetoric. Zgambo has faced previous harassment and arrest, suggesting a pattern of targeting critical voices in the media.
Thomas Allan Zgambo’s arrest exemplifies the ongoing battle for press freedom in Zambia, highlighting a critical need for protective measures for journalists. Vongai Chikwanda’s call for his immediate release underscores the importance of free expression in a healthy democracy. The contradiction between the government’s claims of supporting media freedom and the reality facing journalists like Zgambo calls for urgent reforms to safeguard journalists from unjust imprisonment and harassment.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
