Rights groups urge Zambia to keep internet access open during elections
Access Now and the #KeepItOn coalition have called on Zambian authorities to ensure uninterrupted access to the internet and digital platforms during the 2026 elections, warning that shutdowns could affect access to information and freedom of expression.
Access Now and the #KeepItOn coalition, a global network of more than 370 organisations, have urged Zambian authorities to avoid internet shutdowns during the country’s upcoming elections on 13 August 2026.
In an open letter, the organisations called on President Hakainde Hichilema, the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA), the Ministry of Technology and Science, and internet service providers to maintain open access to the internet and digital platforms throughout the electoral period.
The call follows a June 2026 statement from the Ministry of Technology and Science that the government would not deliberately shut down the internet during the elections. Access Now and the #KeepItOn coalition welcomed the commitment and called for it to be publicly reinforced.
The organisations highlighted previous disruptions during elections, including in 2021 when access to major social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram was restricted. Similar disruptions were also reported during the 2020 and 2016 electoral periods.
Access Now and its partners argued that internet access is important for allowing citizens to receive information, express opinions and participate in democratic processes. They also called for a balance between addressing online harms and protecting fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and access to information.
The groups further referred to Zambia’s 2021 consent judgement, which included commitments related to maintaining open internet access during elections.
