MISA Zambia has backed the introduction of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill in parliament, following President Edgar Lungu’s pronouncement that the Bill will be aimed at protecting ‘persons’ from cybercrime.

Speaking to the PF media team over the weekend, MISA Zambia Chairperson Hellen Mwale said that the Head of State was spot on when he emphasized the introduction of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill.

“I think the Head of State was right on point because we are all tired of these insults, we are all tired of being abused. We have all been victims of social media abuse you know, but I think one thing that I want to say is that social media has come to stay and we will live with it for as long as it exists however we need laws that are going to protect freedom of expression, laws that are going to support freedom of expression, laws that are going to support to information.” Ms. Mwale stated.

“We are alive to the fact that government means well. The Bill is not intended to guard people, the Bill is not intended to stop people from owning any online media but caution comes in that if you abuse something, pay for it because even in a home when you are wrong, you are wrong so this law will protect you and me. We have suffered at the hands of people that we don’t even know.” she added.

She maintained that the government’s introduction of the Bill was aimed at protecting its people especially those who were incapable of defending themselves online.

“I have been insulted several times on social media but I can’t go back to social media and start insulting NO! Social media must be used in a responsible manner.” She Reiterated.