Amnesty International accuses China of blocking RightsCon event
LUSAKA, Zambia (NPA) — Amnesty International has accused China of being behind the sudden stoppage of RightsCon, the global technology and human rights conference scheduled to open in Lusaka, Zambia from Tuesday until Friday this week.
Organizers said foreign interference forced the postponement, marking what Amnesty described as a growing pattern of Chinese authorities using influence to silence dissent and restrict open dialogue.
More than 5,000 participants from 150 countries and 750 organizations had registered, and this would have been the first time the event was hosted in Sub‑Saharan Africa.
Amnesty condemned the development as censorship and a direct attack on freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly. “State‑driven intimidation must face consequences,” the group said, urging the Zambian government to disclose the full reasons behind the cancellation.
The rights group called on all states to support the event organizer, Access Now, in securing an alternative venue to ensure RightsCon takes place this year. The organization warned that efforts to suppress debate undermine democratic values and global cooperation on human rights.
US announces visa restrictions targeting some South Africans
Ghana reaffirms Western Sahara position, welcomes UN Security Council Resolution 2797
Ebola cases in DR Congo rise to 7,022 as outbreak spreads to seventh province
South Africa extradites six Nigerians linked to Black Axe cyberfraud syndicate to the U.S.
Nigeria parliament cancels official trips to South Africa over xenophobia attacks on citizens
King Oyo, the monarch who walked in faith
Eswatini begins government-wide induction for SADC security organ chairship
African Union chairperson calls for renewed unity, solidarity on AU Day
- Tinubu commissions NRS Headquarters, says new tax reforms will drive prosperity
- Akwa Ibom governor approves appointment letters for 4,000 civil service recruits
- Climate change anxiety is rising — and so is the willingness to act on it
- Golden Globes want to make a comeback this year. Hollywood isn’t buying
- Baseball boosts TBS, NFL gives ESPN a kick and streamers love ‘Squid’
Community Discussion