German Ambassador to Zambia Bernd 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 was speaking at the launch of the State of the Media Report 2015, held earlier in the year.
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).
