The Public Order Act: A Controversial Law?

Zambia embraced democracy after abandoning one party rule in 1990. Democracy thrives on the respect of the rights and freedoms of citizens. However, the country's record on human rights has come under criticism by local and international organizations and commentators. The state police has been labelled brutal and heavy handed in dealing with those who oppose government. The ruling parties have used the state police to enforce the Public Order Act which regulates the rights and freedoms of assembly of citizens to prevent rival parties from holding meetings. The citizens who have disobeyed police orders and went ahead to hold meetings have met the police muscle. This development has damaged the country's human rights record and undermined the internal security.