By Mubanga Mubanga
Free Press Initiative (FPI) has demanded immediate action from the government to uphold press freedom and protect journalists’ rights.
And FPI has stated that what happened to journalists in Kitwe exposes the urgent need for the government to repeal and replace the Public Order Act, as its continued existence allows for such harassment to persist.
The demand follows the disruption of a press briefing by Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and confiscation of cameras and other gadgets from journalists who were covering the event in Kitwe.
FPI founder and executive director Joan Chirwa has stated that failure to address this issue promptly will only confirm suspicions of a deliberate attempt to maintain a draconian environment, perpetuating harassment of journalists by the police.
She stated that it is crucial for the Zambia Police to change their culture and recognize journalists as partners in disseminating information.
“By working together, they can ensure the safety of journalists and uphold the principles of a democratic society. This reform is especially important now, with the upcoming 2026 elections on the horizon, as it will prevent further mistreatment of journalists in the name of disrupting illegal assemblies,” Chirwa stated. “The FPI demands immediate action from the government to uphold press freedom and protect journalists’ rights. Let us hope that positive steps are taken to rectify this situation and create an environment where journalists can carry out their vital work without fear of harassment or intimidation.”
She stated that Zambians must remain vigilant, ensuring that their voices are heard in demanding a free press that operates within a framework of respect, freedom and transparency.
Chirwa stated that it is only through such collective efforts that the country can safeguard the fundamental tenets of democracy and preserve the integrity of nation’s information ecosystem.
