On 1 January 2000, Kelvin Shimo, a reporter working for the privately owned “Post” newspaper, was barred from attending a function organised by the ruling Movement for Multi-party Democracy (MMD) at Itezhi-tezhi in Central Zambia. Shimo told the Zambia Independent Media Association (ZIMA/MISA-Zambia), that he was prevented by Bob Samakayi, an official from State House, […]
On 1 January 2000, Kelvin Shimo, a reporter working for the privately owned “Post” newspaper, was barred from attending a function organised by the ruling Movement for Multi-party Democracy (MMD) at Itezhi-tezhi in Central Zambia.
Shimo told the Zambia Independent Media Association (ZIMA/MISA-Zambia), that he was prevented by Bob Samakayi, an official from State House, from boarding a Zambia Air Force (ZAF) aircraft carrying journalists invited to cover the start of the MMD’s membership renewal drive on New Year’s day. The event was to be officiated by President Frederick Chiluba.
Shimo alleged that Samakayi instructed an armed ZAF sentry to escort him off the Lusaka City Airport ZAF base, where the aircraft was boarding, on account that he was from the “Post”.
“As I was going through the boarding formalities, Samakayi realised that I was from the âPostâ and approached me, saying that I was not going anywhere. He then disappeared into an office. Shortly afterwards, an armed ZAF guard approached the group of journalists I was in and ordered me off the base despite my protests,” Shimo said.
Shimo said the “Post”, along with other media organisations, was invited through MMD National Secretary Michael Sata’s office, to cover the event and he personally submitted his name to Sata’s office, confirming his acceptance. On Friday 31 December, Sata’s office phoned the “Post” to remind the reporter about the appointment the next day.
Reacting to the barring of his reporter, “Post” News Editor Joe Kaunda said, “We are disappointed with the action of government. Barring us from doing our duties especially when tax payers’ money is involved is immoral”.
ZIMA chairman David Simpson condemned Samakayi, saying the MMD should realise that it needs the support of the media. “Barring media representatives can only add to the unfortunate image the MMD is receiving in local and foreign media. It contradicts the MMD’s stated commitment to press freedom.”
