Prime tv refuses to offer public service on coronavirus
By Sharon Kunda-Prime Television proprietor GERALD SHAWA has refused to offer public service messages on Corona virus sensitisation.
Mr SHAWA says he will ONLY do it when government pays for the service in accordance with the budget that media owners have drawn.
He was speaking during the a meeting organised by the Ministry of Information and broadcasting services in Lusaka today to find ways of raising awareness by the various media organisations regarding the Coronavirus.
He claimed that Media owners have agreed NOT to help Government in the Corona sensitisation programme without payment.
He said Government should first settle outstanding dues owed to the media institutions before it could engage them on providing free airspace for sensitising people on the corona virus.
Association spokesperson said KEN TONGA said the coronavirus problem requires concerted efforts by all stakeholders.
Meanwhile, Mr. MALUPENGA said Government is in the process of compiling all arrears owed to the media institutions by Electoral Commission of Zambia -ECZ-.
Hé said that he had assured the media proprietors in previously held meetings that he would ensure the money is paid to them.
Mr. MALUPENGA advised Mr. SHAWA to desist from using arm twisting techniques on the Government.
He pointed out that Government will give business without discriminating against the private media.
Mr. MALUPENGA also said Government will NOT force anyone to enter into partnership with it in sensitizing people on the corona virus.
He told all media owners that this was an opportunity to consolidate partnerships with Government and that there is no institution that is bigger than the other.
