Conflicting Statements: Mwamba’s Denial Exposes Unprofessional Reporting by ZNBC
By Dr Mwelwa
In a recent report by ZNBC (Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation), it was stated that Emmanuel Mwamba, the Patriotic Front Chairperson for Information and Publicity, had confirmed that former President Edgar Lungu would not be returning to politics. According to the report, Mwamba emphasized that Lungu deserved to rest and enjoy his retirement without being dragged back into the political arena.
However, Mr. Mwamba has refuted these claims, stating that he did not say what ZNBC allegedly reported. He has neither confirmed nor denied whether Lungu will be returning to active politics. It is important to note that attempts were made to reach out to Mwamba before this article was shared, but he did not respond until it had already gone viral.
This conflicting information from a supposedly reliable news source raises questions about the professionalism and accuracy of ZNBC’s reporting. It is crucial for media organizations to be responsible and objective, providing accurate information to the public. In this case, ZNBC failed to do so, causing confusion and uncertainty about the future of the Patriotic Front.
The unclear stance of Mwamba regarding Lungu’s return to politics also adds to the overall lack of clarity within the Patriotic Front. It is essential for the party to provide transparency and clear communication about their future plans and their position on Lungu’s potential comeback.
Moreover, this incident highlights the need for the Registrar of Societies’ directive for all political parties to hold conventions, as outlined in Article 60 of the Zambian Constitution. These conventions will serve as a platform for the party members to collectively make important decisions, including the selection of their leaders.
The unprofessional reporting by ZNBC not only undermines the credibility of the media organization but also hampers the public’s ability to make informed decisions. It is crucial for journalists and media outlets to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, accuracy, and objectivity in their reporting.
In conclusion, the conflicting statements and unprofessional reporting by ZNBC have created confusion and uncertainty about the future of Edgar Lungu’s involvement in politics. It is imperative for the Patriotic Front to provide clarity and transparency on this matter. Additionally, media organizations should strive to maintain professionalism and accuracy in their reporting to ensure the public is well-informed and can make informed decisions.