Media Self-Regulation Council of Zambia Chairperson, Kennedy Mambwe, has accused the Media Liaison Committee (MLC) of misleading the media fraternity and the nation regarding the controversial Zambia Institute of Journalism Bill.
Speaking on HOT FM’s Hot Seat programme on Tuesday, Mambwe claimed that the bill currently circulating was not authored by the MLC, alleging that the document is classified and appears to have originated from government technocrats, not media stakeholders.
“The Media Liaison Committee did not produce this bill. They don’t even have the competence to draft such a document. This was done by government drafters—technocrats,” Mambwe stated. “There is a stamp on the document indicating approval for internal registration by Parliament, and it bears the name of the Chief Parliamentary Counsel. It’s clearly marked ‘secret’.”
Mambwe further questioned the legitimacy of the individuals behind the bill, asking whether they are active journalists who can genuinely represent the interests of the media sector.
“Responding to my sister, Felistus, first of all, these are our colleagues, we know them. We know Felistus, Wendy Mporokoso, Joy, Ernest Chanda, and Brighton. But I ask: when did they last practice journalism? At least for Ernest, I know,” he remarked.
The Zambia Institute of Journalism Bill has drawn criticism from various media bodies, with many questioning both its origin and intent. Concerns have been raised about the bill being developed without broad consultation and its potential impact on media freedom and self-regulation.
The MLC has yet to formally respond to Mambwe’s claims.