Macpherson Mukuka Charged Under Cyber Crimes Act

A journalist has been arrested and charged under the Cyber Crimes Act in Zambia. Macpherson Mukuka, a state media outlet employee, was detained on July 17 at the Kabwata Police Station in Lusaka for allegedly violating Section 10 of the Cyber Crimes Act No.4 of 2025 by recording a private conversation without prior notice.

Macpherson Mukuka, a journalist working with the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC), was arrested on July 17 and charged under the Cyber Crimes Act in Zambia. This development has significant implications for press freedom and the role of journalists in Zambia. The arrest raises questions about the interpretation and application of Section 10 of the Cyber Crimes Act No.4 of 2025, which prohibits recording private conversations without prior notice.

The Cyber Crimes Act No.4 of 2025 is a significant piece of legislation that aims to regulate online activities in Zambia. The Act establishes various offenses related to cybercrime, including unauthorized access to computer systems and data protection. Section 10 of the Act specifically prohibits recording private conversations without prior notice, which has been cited as the reason for Mukuka's arrest. This provision raises concerns about the balance between individual privacy rights and the freedom of the press.

The arrest of Macpherson Mukuka under the Cyber Crimes Act highlights the need for clarity on the interpretation and application of Section 10. The provision, which prohibits recording private conversations without prior notice, may be seen as an infringement on journalists' ability to gather information and conduct interviews. This raises concerns about press freedom in Zambia and the potential impact on the role of journalists in holding those in power accountable.

The arrest of Macpherson Mukuka under the Cyber Crimes Act highlights the need for careful consideration of the balance between individual privacy rights and the freedom of the press. Practitioners should monitor this development closely, as it may have significant implications for the role of journalists in Zambia and the interpretation of Section 10 of the Cyber Crimes Act No.4 of 2025.