GOVT WARNS MEDIA AGAINST PUBLISHING UNVERIFIED ELECTION RESULTS
Government has urged media organisations to uphold responsible journalism as the country heads towards next week’s general election.
Speaking during a media briefing, Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana cautioned that publishing unverified reports and unofficial election results could undermine peace and create unnecessary confusion among the public.
Mr Kawana called on journalists and editors to adhere to professional ethics by verifying facts, providing balanced and accurate coverage, and refraining from publishing misinformation and disinformation.
He emphasised that the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) is the only institution legally mandated to announce official election results.
Mr Kawana further reminded media organisations of their critical role in promoting peace, national unity and public confidence by exercising restraint and maintaining accuracy throughout the election period.