Hichilema abolishes death penalty

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Zim Now Writer

Zambian president Hakainde Hichilema has announced on his Facebook page that he has officially abolished the death penalty and the offence of criminal defamation of the president.

The Penal Code (Amendment) Bill number 25 of 2022, which was assented to by the president, repeals all provisions in the Penal Code Act that provided for the mandatory death sentence in the absence of extenuating circumstances.

The provisions of Section 69, which pertain to criminal defamation of the president, have also been repealed.

Hichilema emphasized that these changes align with the campaign promises to amend laws that inhibit the growth of democracy, good governance, and human rights.

“Fellow Zambians, during our campaigns for the presidency, we promised to amend all laws that inhibit the growth of democracy and good governance, impede human rights and basic freedoms. Today we have delivered,” the president said in a statement.

According to the statement, the abolition of the death penalty and criminal defamation of the president marks a significant step forward for human rights in the Republic of Zambia. The decision to repeal these provisions demonstrates a commitment to justice and the protection of basic freedoms for all citizens.

Amnesty International has been advocating for the abolishment of death penalties in the world.

Zimbabwe still recognises the death penalty and has since sentenced several prisoners to death. However, no execution has happened over the years because the position of hang man is still vacant.