Zambia Pledges Free Press, Freedom of Speech

Zambia’s information minister says President Hakainde Hichilema’s government will continue to respect the freedoms of speech and press because these are entrenched in the constitution. This, after some opposition politicians accused the government of planning to introduce amendments to the Information Broadcasting Authority Act. The changes would punish perceived political opponents who use social media to disseminate their views. Information Minister Cornelius Mweetwa, tells VOA’s James Butty, the proposed amendments are about regulating the licensing of broadcasting via the internet. He says the changes are being suggested by ordinary citizens, not the government.