Govt committed to upholding the rights of citizens-Kawana

By Sharon Siame

Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary THABO KAWANA has said the government is committed to upholding the rights of citizens, including the right to Freedom of Expression.

Mr. KAWANA says the Ministry of Media and Information plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the Media operates freely and that citizens have a platform to express their views without fear of reprisal.

He says the right to express one’s views must be balanced with the need to maintain public order, national security and respect for others.

Mr. KAWANA said this in a speech read on his behalf by Ministry of Information and Media Director Spokesperson HENRY KAPATA during the official opening of Freedom of Expression Conference in Lusaka today.

And, Media Institute of Southern Africa -MISA- Board Chairperson LORRAINE CHISANGA said that the Institution remains unwavering in advocating for freedom of expression and an independent but responsible media.

Meanwhile, MISA Zambia National Director AUSTIN KAYANDA said the free flow of information is paramount to the country’s democracy.