Abuse of media freedoms by ‘The State’ irks MISA

Hyde Haguta

The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zambia Chapter has noted with concern the growing trend by the authorities to abuse media freedoms in the country.

Speaking during the official launch of the “2017 So this is Democracy Report” in Lusaka, MISA Zambia Deputy Chairperson, Hyde Haguta said MISA is at pains to see how media freedoms in Zambia are abused by those in authority.

Mr. Haguta has since called upon media personnel in the country to unite and demand for what is right.

He has further condemned the intentions by ZICTA to regulate WhatsApp saying such things should not be tolerated as they are shrinking online space.

Mr. Haguta says MISA is not against the cyber laws that are coming, but will not support such laws if they are meant to reduce media freedoms.

And giving an overview of the report, MISA Zambia National Director, Austin Kayanda said last year was full of issues ranging from media censorship, assault on journalists, attacks on media institutions, among other happenings.