By Ireen Mulenga
The Ministry of Home Affairs has expressed displeasure in a matter circulating on social media in which a Nigerian National, Isaac Amata alleges that his visa application was rejected at the instruction of President Edgar Lungu.
Ministry of home Affairs Public Relations Officer Nephas Chifuta said the attacks on the President Lungu are malicious and unjustified.
Mr Chifuta said that according to Zambian Laws, the Department of Immigration thoroughly examines all applications for any immigration services to ensure that they meet all laid-down requirements.
“Like any other country, decision of a visa application is discretional. The Immigration and Deportation Act No. 18 of 2010 of the Laws of Zambia vests discretion on an Immigration officer to either grant or deny a visa application,” he said.
He said the reasons for rejecting Mr Amata’s online visa application were communicated to him and it has literally nothing to do with the Head of State.
Mr Chifuta said the Government of Zambia and the Ministry of Home Affairs in particular, acknowledges and recognizes freedom of speech and expression as enshrined in the Zambian constitution.
He said freedom is however, anchored on sincerity.
Mr Chifuta said the Zambian Government shall take appropriate legal action on the matter whilst following established channels.
