HH REFUSES TO SIGN CCTV BILL, SENDS IT BACK TO PARLEY TO AVOID INTRUSION INTO PRIVATE LIVES

HH REFUSES TO SIGN CCTV BILL, SENDS IT BACK TO PARLEY TO AVOID INTRUSION INTO PRIVATE LIVES

By Joseph Kamanga

President Hakainde Hichilema has refused to sign into law the Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) Public Protection Bill, referring it back to the National Assembly for further consideration because “it poses a potential risk of intrusion into the private lives of citizens”.

According to Cabinet, President Hichilema emphasised the need to safeguard constitutional rights, particularly the right to privacy, before such legislation can be enacted into law.

The Head of State urged broader consultation with stakeholders to ensure that it strikes the right balance between enhancing public security and protecting civil liberties.

The CCTV Bill seeks to establish a legal framework for the regulation and management of surveillance systems, including the collection and handling of data obtained through such systems.

It also outlines structures intended to oversee the operation and coordination of public security surveillance mechanisms.

President Hichilema’s decision to refer the Bill back to Parliament therefore calls for refinement and wider engagement with relevant stakeholders to address concerns raised during its review process.

The Bill is now expected to return to the National Assembly for reconsideration by the members of parliament. Once approved, it will be sent back to the President for possible assent.

©️Zambia Reports, 7 February, 2026.