United Party for National Development (UPND) media official Amos Chanda has reaffirmed the party’s commitment to media freedom, stating that the media in Zambia remains self-regulatory and will continue to operate independently.
Speaking during a press briefing, Mr. Chanda emphasized that President Hakainde Hichilema is a firm supporter of media freedom and self-regulation without government interference. “There is no better way for the media to function freely than through self-regulation,” he said.
Chanda further argued that the existence of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act should not undermine journalistic freedom, as journalists are already guided by strong ethical standards. He stressed that interfering with the integrity of the journalism profession would be unjust.
Meanwhile, UPND media director Mark Simuuwe echoed similar sentiments, noting that the President’s stance on press freedom is clear and unwavering. “He meant it when he said no media house shall be shut down,” Simuuwe said, adding that the President continuously urges the media to report responsibly by distinguishing facts from propaganda.
Simuuwe also reassured that investigative journalism is not under threat, and Zambia’s maturing democracy will continue to safeguard media freedoms as long as the press operates within ethical boundaries.
On political matters, Simuuwe dismissed fears over possible political alliances between opposition parties and the Tonse Alliance, including rumors about former President Edgar Lungu’s return. He described the idea of Lungu’s reappointment as unserious, arguing that the opposition has not learned from their 2021 defeat.
He concluded by highlighting President Hichilema’s achievements across sectors such as agriculture, energy, mining, and education, asserting that the opposition lacks the competence to govern and would not be able to win the next election.