By Honester Mshoka
Information and Media Minister Cornelius Mweetwa has urged public media houses to provide balanced coverage to all political players during the forthcoming general election.
Mr. Mweetwa said balanced reporting will help ensure that the country’s elections are free, fair, and conducted with integrity.
He made the remarks during a meeting with heads of public media houses in Lusaka, where he noted that President Hakainde Hichilema has no intention of interfering with media operations, provided professionalism is maintained.
Mr. Mweetwa cautioned that a lack of professionalism may compel the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) to intervene. He further encouraged public media institutions to promote narratives that contribute to national development.
Meanwhile, ZNBC Acting Director General Reuben Kajokoto expressed appreciation to government for passing the ZNBC Act, stating that the corporation is developing regulations to operationalize the law. He explained that ZNBC has faced financial challenges in the past and emphasized that the Act will help address many of the institution’s constraints. Kajokoto assured the nation that ZNBC will continue to provide balanced coverage across the country.
Zambia Daily Mail Acting Director Emeldah Musonda said the institution has strengthened its reporting, particularly on economic developments, and is training staff on professional election coverage while mobilizing resources.
And Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) Acting Director Willie Sitali said the agency will continue executing its mandate effectively, while requesting additional manpower to manage operations for the newly established television channel.
