German Ambassador to Zambia Bernd Finke on Friday 29th January, 2016 launched the third quarter of the 2015 State of the Media Report at a function at the Protea Lusaka Tower.
Addressing the attendants, Ambassador Finke stated that in a democratic system, the actions or omissions of the government must be subject to the close scrutiny not only of the legislative and judicial authorities but also of public opinion.
He noted that the dominant position held by the government makes it necessary for it to display restraint in resorting to criminal proceedings, particularly where other means are available for replying to the unjustified attacks and criticisms of its adversaries.
Present at the launch were MISA Chairperson Hellen Mwale and the MISA National Governing Council, FES Resident Director Helmund Elisher. Others included the Irish Embassy head of mission among many representatives from civil society.
The event also featured a special discussion panel which comprised Mr. Hyde Haguta (Radio Phoenix), Mr. Macdonald Chipenzi (FODEP), Mrs. Bibian Mwale (Radio Christian Voice) and Mr. Enock Ngoma (Media Liaison Committee).
View or Download ambassador Finke’s speech here: Key speech Ambassador Finke 29.1.16
