TIZ condemns interference in ZNBC editorial policy

Transparency International Zambia says it is dismayed by the alleged conduct of Information and Broadcasting Services Permanent Secretary Chanda Kasolo and other senior government officials to interfere with the ZNBC editorial policy, as confirmed by ZNBC Board Chairperson Dr John Mulwila.

In a letter to Mr Kasolo dated 25th November,2015 ,obtained by QFM News, TIZ Executive Director Goodwell Lungu reminds Mr Kasolo that as Information Permanent Secretary, his key role is to ensure that ZNBC provides free,fair,professional and unbiased news and other programme coverage of both opposition and ruling parties.

Mr Lungu points out that this is in accordance with the Electoral Code of Conduct statutory instrument no.90 of 2006 of the Electoral Act no.12 of 2006, adding that Mr Kasolo’s conduct is a direct affront against the code of conduct.

He states that ZNBC is not owned by the ruling party or the ministry of information but the Zambian people who are entitled to be given free and fair coverage of political events.

Mr Lungu has since commended ZNBC Board Chairperson Dr John Mulwila for coming out clearly to expose these acts and has called on Zambians to fully support this.

He however states that TIZ does not agree with the directive that all statements to ZNBC should be in written and signed as this may be exploited to again disadvantage the opposition who are most vulnerable in this case.

Mr Lungu points out that most rallies that are now underway will not have written and signed speeches as demanded by the ZNBC Board, and has since called on the board to drop the aspect of signed statements and allow fair coverage both the opposition and ruling parties.

And MR Lungu has called n the Anti Corruption Commission to immediately institute investigations against all senior government officials on the allegations of abuse of office as raised by Dr Mulwila.

Dr Mulwila in his statement stated that the threats to dismiss ZNBC Director of News and Current Affairs Kenneth Maduma and his staff from employment on account of doing their professional work amount to abuse of authority of office and a crime.