Home 9 Freedom of expression 9 State of the Media in Zambia – Q1, 2017

State of the Media in Zambia – Q1, 2017

27 Sep, 2017
The state of the media in Zambia continues to deteriorate in the first quarter of 2017, with constraints from various groups in the country including the state.

The state of the media in Zambia continues to deteriorate in the first quarter of 2017, with constraints from various groups in the country including the state.

The great contribution that a free and unconstrained media in a country makes can never be over emphasised. Benjamin Franklin says that whoever would overthrow the liberty of a nation must begin by subduing the freeness of speech.

With regards to this country, despite governments frequent assurance that it values free press, the media is suffering under intimidation and fear.

  • Armed police officers raided former Post Newspapers proprietor Fred M’membe’s house in February. They harassed and tore his wife’s dress in the presence of onlookers after they failed to find M’membe.
  • In February, police and plain clothed state operatives raided a plot at 19 Joseph Mwilwa Rd in Lusaka where they believed The Mast newspaper’s newsroom was operating.
  • Police were deployed at Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) in March to stop a sit-in which had started because of delayed salaries. The police presence caused panic among some members of staff who did not understand why their peaceful protest could warrant such a move.
  • In March, some suspected political party cadres assaulted two journalists at the United Party for National Development secretariat in Lusaka after police stopped a press conference.

As these incidents show, media is suffering direct threats from law enforcement as well as by political players. In addition, actions such as the non-payment of salaries or low salaries are an indirect means of suppressing critical voices.

For the full report visit: State Of The Media In Zambia Q1 2017 .Pdf (671.75 KB)

About MISA

The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) was founded in 1992. Its work focuses on promoting, and advocating for, the unhindered enjoyment of freedom of expression, access to information and a free, independent, diverse and pluralistic media.

Share this

Related news

MISA Zambia conducts orientation for Lawyers Network

MISA Zambia conducts orientation for Lawyers Network

Today, an orientation session was conducted in Lusaka for the Lawyers Network focusing on the Legal Note, which was released on March 6th, 2024. Comprised of legal professionals passionate about Media Laws, Freedom of Expression, and advancing Human Rights throughout...

MISA Zambia launches Legal Note

MISA Zambia launches Legal Note

MISA Zambia has today launched the Legal Note on Freedom of Expression, Media Freedom, and Digital Rights in Zambia. The Legal Note carries significant importance, serving as a crucial resource for human rights defenders and professionals working in the justice...

MISA holds National Digital Rights Advocacy Workshop

MISA holds National Digital Rights Advocacy Workshop

In a world where our lives are lived as much online as they are offline, the fight for internet rights is more crucial than ever! Imagine a society where the digital realm reflects the values of democracy and freedom! On February 8th, MISA Zambia conducted a National...