Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
The MISA Zambia State of the Media reports for the third and fourth quarters of 2014 have revealed that little progress has been made with regards government putting in place laws that favor the advancement of media freedom in the country.
Speaking during the launch of the two reports in Lusaka this morning, MISA Zambia Chairperson
Hellen Mwale says there is need for government to honor its promises and concretize the pronouncements where possible.
Ms Mwale notes that this is more especially when it comes to provisions that need backing from pieces of legislation as this will be the only true guarantee of media freedom and access to information in the nation.
She says MISA Zambia is still hopeful that the pace at which the newly appointed Minister of Information and Broadcasting services is moving will see to it that media law reforms result into a better operating environment that will result in greater access to information and freedom of expression for citizens.
Ms Mwale stresses that it is however, disheartening to note that during the periods under review, harassment of the media has continued citing the attacks on two Post newspapers photo journalists, two attacks of Muvi Television reporters and the storming of the ZNBC newsroom by ruling party officials.
The MISA Zambia Chairperson adds that MISA will always stand firm to condemn harassment of journalists.
Ms Mwale has also expressed disappointment with the absence of a representative from ministry of information and broadcasting services at such an important event.
Ms Mwale said this in a speech read on her behalf by MISA Zambia board member Wilson Pondamali.