MLC slams intimidation of media houses

By KALUNGA MWAPE

THE Media Liaison Committee (MLC) has expressed concern over what it describes as increasing violations and intimidation of the media ahead of the August 13 general elections.

MLC chairperson Henry Kabwe has condemned the arrest of the Byta FM Station Manager over the station’s coverage of the killing of a driver attached to an independent candidate in Magoye, Mazabuka.

Mr. Kabwe says journalists have a constitutional duty to report on matters of public interest, including election-related violence, adding that arresting media personnel for such coverage threatens press freedom and could discourage independent reporting.

He has called for the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all charges related to the broadcast.

Mr. Kabwe has also urged the Independent Broadcasting Authority to ensure that any sanctions against media houses were transparent, proportionate and guided by due process, warning that a climate of fear could lead to self-censorship.

The committee has also expressed concern over complaints alleging that the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation and other public media outlets were giving disproportionate coverage to the ruling party while providing limited airtime to opposition and independent candidates.

Mr. Kabwe said public broadcasters, funded by taxpayers, have a legal obligation to provide fair, balanced and equitable coverage to all contestants in line with the Electoral Code of Conduct.

Ends.