By Lusaka Sun Reporter
LUSAKA – The government has dismissed as false and malicious the viral rumours claiming that former Defence Minister and Patriotic Front (PF) senior member Geoffrey Bwalya Mwamba (GBM) has died.
In a press briefing held on Monday afternoon at Maina Soko Medical Centre, Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana categorically stated that Mr. Mwamba is alive and receiving medical care. He said the government found it necessary to address the matter publicly due to the widespread nature of the false information circulating on various social media platforms.
“Let me make it clear to the public: Mr. Geoffrey Bwalya Mwamba is alive. He is stable and under professional medical care,” Kawana said. “The rumours circulating about his death are completely false and unfortunate.”
Kawana was joined at the briefing by GBM’s lawyer, Charles Changano, who also confirmed that his client is in recovery and in good spirits. The two officials warned that such rumours are not only insensitive but can cause emotional harm to the families involved and unnecessary panic to the general public.
“This level of misinformation is dangerous. It affects people’s mental well-being and can cause emotional distress to families and loved ones,” Kawana said, adding that the government is considering taking legal action against those behind the rumour.
He further stated that the spread of such unverified reports reflects a disturbing trend on social media, where fake news often gains traction faster than verified facts. Kawana cautioned Zambians to be wary of digital content and to only rely on trusted sources for updates.
“People must understand that freedom of expression does not include the freedom to manufacture falsehoods. We are now engaging relevant authorities to ensure that the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act is enforced against those who generate such fake news,” he added.
The Permanent Secretary said the government is committed to protecting public figures and private citizens alike from the damage caused by misinformation. He urged social media users to verify information before sharing it and to be responsible digital citizens.
Meanwhile, sources close to Mr. Mwamba have confirmed that he is aware of the situation and has chosen to focus on his recovery rather than be distracted by the rumours. According to medical staff at Maina Soko, GBM is responding well to treatment and remains under observation.
The spread of the false information has sparked conversations around digital ethics and the dangers of online misinformation in Zambia. Public reactions have included calls for stricter regulation of online content and greater accountability for those who spread falsehoods.
This incident adds to a growing list of high-profile individuals in Zambia who have been targeted by social media death hoaxes, sparking renewed calls for digital literacy campaigns and robust public awareness initiatives to curb the spread of fake news.
As Zambia continues to adapt to the realities of a digitally connected world, officials have stressed the importance of maintaining trust in official communication channels and respecting the privacy and dignity of individuals facing health challenges.
The government has reiterated that the public will be kept informed through official updates and urged the nation to focus on supporting GBM and his family during this time.
