ZAMCOM EQUIPS SCRIBES AHEAD OF AUGUST POLL
By Ruth Chayinda-Information and Broadcasting Services Permanent Secretary Amos Malupenga has advised journalists and media houses to adhere to the laws and regulations that govern elections as the country heads towards the 2021 polls.
Mr. Malupenga says adherence to the electoral laws and rules, will not only enhance professionalism but also the safety of journalists.
Speaking when he officially opened a media workshop on electoral reporting in Lusaka today, Mr. Malupenga said the law will visit anyone found wanting for harassing journalists in the course of their duty.
He explained that the report of the Commission of Inquiry into Voting Patterns and Electoral Violence for the 2016 General Election shows that the unprofessional conduct of the media contributed to the divisive voting patterns.
And Mr. Malupenga said media houses should desist from using sources that are fond of using unpalatable language.
He said elections should be based on ideas and manifesto and not name-calling.
Mr. Malupenga also urged the public and media personnel to enjoy their freedom of expression within the confines of the law.
The Permanent secretary has also commended ZAMCOM for carrying out a media training before the August polls, further urging various stakeholders to support the institution to meet its target of training 100 journalists.
And ZAMCOM Board Chairperson Robert Makola said the media training is in line with the institution’s mandate to re-capacitate journalists with knowledge and skills ahead of the election.
Mr. Makola said 21 participants have been drawn from 13 public and private media organisations.