KITWE – Government says it has no intention of shutting down media houses, but individual journalists will remain personally liable for any breaches of the law committed in the course of their work.
Speaking during a courtesy call on Copperbelt Province Permanent Secretary Lawrence Mwanza on Thursday, Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana said the Government's position against closing media houses should not be interpreted as immunity from legal consequences.
"Even as we stated that no media house will be closed, media houses must work within the confines of the law because the law will catch up with them if they err. If suspension is needed, then it will be done," Mr. Kawana said.
He urged journalists to prioritise balanced and factual reporting rather than sensationalism, particularly during the election period.
Mr. Kawana said journalists should ensure that all parties, especially those facing allegations, are given an opportunity to respond before stories are published.
"Do not aim for comments. You will land yourself in problems as an individual, not as a media house," he said.
The Permanent Secretary emphasised that accountability for unlawful reporting rests with the individual journalist rather than the media institution.
He further cautioned that irresponsible reporting has the potential to heighten political tensions during the ongoing election campaign.
"Take responsibility of reporting responsibly to avoid tension," he added.
Meanwhile, Copperbelt Province Permanent Secretary Lawrence Mwanza called on journalists to strengthen their fact-checking and verification practices.
Mr. Mwanza urged media practitioners to ensure that all reports are accurate, evidence-based and consistent with professional journalism standards.
The remarks come amid ongoing national discussions on press freedom, media regulation and responsible reporting ahead of Zambia's 13 August General Election.
Source: Kalemba News (By Sanfrossa Mberi)