MONICA KAYOMBO, Lusaka
PANOS Institute of Southern Africa ( PSAf) executive director Vusumuzi Sifile says the Access to Information (ATI) Bill that the media  in Zambia  wants enacted into law does not only concern journalists but all citizens. Speaking yesterday during the media law and policy information session Mr Sifile said ATI is a fundamental human right that requires everyone’s support.
He said the media needs to speak with a united voice and build a solid body of knowledge even as it advocates for the enactment of the piece of legislation. Mr Sifile said despite Government showing commitment in supporting the ATI Bill, it is incumbent on stakeholders to remain focused. Among things that PSAf wants achieved are the promotion of digital security and literacy as the proliferation of technology has increased the risks associated with the use and misuse of digital platforms.
He said being a member of the Open Space Consortium Zambia, PSAf  is part of the team that is currently drafting a report on the universal periodic review of the United Nations (UN) human rights committee focusing on article 19 of the universal declaration. “As much as the Constitution has a clause on freedom of expression, we need a law that specifically touches on access to information. “There is a need to come up with practical solutions. All of us will have to play a part in addressing any challenges that we will identify,’’ Mr Sifile said. And making a presentation on ATI policy legal framework in Zambia,  Intenews Network Zambia senior lawyer, Joe Nkandani said the proposed law is a critical prerequisite to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He said if people have no access to information, it will make it difficult for them to have full input in processes like the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). Mr Nkandani said the ATI law will also help curb corruption as journalists will be able to expose the potential illegalities. He said the US$33 million FTJ university scandal wouldn’t have happened had the ATI law been in place. CLICK TO READ MORE