MISA Zambia has called for strong collaborations among stakeholders in advocating for fundamental freedoms of democracy.
Speaking during the launch of the Freedom of Expression (FOX) Report in Zambia, MISA Zambia National Director, Austin Kayanda said there is need for all stakeholders and the government to work together to have an environment that is free from legal impediments.
Mr. Kayanda said the fundamental Freedoms of the Media, Freedom of Expression and Digital Rights must be protected and respected as they are key tenets in any functioning democracy.
He appealed to government to quicken the process of reviewing and repealing the Laws that negatively impact democracy and enact Laws that will guarantee absolute enjoyment of these fundamental freedoms.
He urged the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government to act on the promises it made to the media and the Zambian people at large and enact these laws.
And speaking at the same event, Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Kennedy Kalunga, noted with sadness that Media Freedom, Freedom of Expression and Digital Rights are partially enjoyed in Zambia citing that political interference, media ownership and the existence of certain Laws had continued to infringe these fundamental freedoms of democracy.
Mr. Kalunga stated that the New Dawn Government is an inclusive government with an open-door policy and is working with all stakeholders to ensure that Laws that are going to support and respect the fundamental freedoms of democracy are in place.
He added that government is working tirelessly to ensure that Media Freedoms, Freedom of Expression and Digital Rights are respected and enjoyed absolutely by every citizen without fear, intimidation or harassment.
The Permanent Secretary, said the New Dawn administration is working towards ensuring that an enabling environment is created where Media Institutions, Journalists, Human Rights Activists, Civil Society Organizations and Members of the public are free to interact and share information without fear.
He reminded citizens not to tire but continue advising government on how best to better the environment.
