LAZ condemns attempted interference of ZNBC operation

LAZ logoThe Law Association of Zambia has strongly condemned the recent actions by government Patriotic Front officials in attempting to interfere with the content of news broadcast by ZNBC on the ground that it contained reports on activities relating to opposition parties and parties that do not favour the current ruling dispensation.

The government and PF officials are Sports Minister Chishimba Kambwili, Chongwe Members of Parliament Sylvia Masebo and PF Deputy Secretary General Anthony Kasolo.

LAZ President George Chisanga in a statement issued today says as a national broadcaster ZNBC is mandated to broadcast news relating to all Zambians regardless of political, cultural, religious, social or any other affiliation.

Mr Chisanga says any attempt to infringe on this mandate is a serious abrogation of the constitutional right to freedom of expression and restricts the flow of information to Zambians particularly in the wake of the upcoming presidential election.

He states that it is critical that Zambians have access to information to enable them have the opportunity to evaluate the views and opinions of all political stakeholders in order to make informed decisions.

Mr Chisanga says LAZ condemns the views of the named officials that the national broadcaster should protect the ruling party,the government or any particular individual in government as part of its mandate.

The LAZ President says this is not only incorrect, but also indicates a clear misunderstanding of government’s role in operations of the national broadcaster that is autonomous and that should be independent and impartial.

Mr Chisanga has since applauded the the bold action taken by the Board of ZNBC under the leadership of Dr John Mulwila.

He notes that the statement by Dr Mulwila is an indication that ZNBC is prepared to protect its institutional autonomy.

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