Rogue ruling party youths verbally abuse opposition leader Chilufya Tayali and block him from participating in radio interview.
This statement was originally published on zambia.misa.org on 2 January 2023.
MISA Zambia has received with serious concern reports of acts of censorship at Kokoliko FM, which was forced to end a radio programme in its tracks by suspected United Party for National Development (UPND) supporters.
We received a report on 31st December 2022 indicating that suspected UPND cadres disrupted a live paid for radio programme at Kokoliko FM featuring Economic and Equity Party (EEP) President Mr. Chilufya Tayali, who was discussing issues affecting the nation.
We have been informed that several cadres stormed the radio station and ordered the journalists who were on duty to stop the programme, citing that Mr. Tayali did not have the right to be on the radio station. It is also reported that the said cadres did manage to chase Mr. Tayali out of the studio and used abusive language against the journalists on duty; and yet our country is a multiparty democracy.
MISA Zambia is very saddened by this incident and is calling on the Zambia Police Service and the party in whose name these persons are acting, to take meaningful action, as this case is the fourth we have recorded on matters of party supporters carrying out acts of censorship or violence against journalists. It is concerning that these acts are on the rise and may compromise the right to freedom of expression and media freedom ranking for Zambia.
The stated freedoms are key to democracy sustenance and growth; including good governance and development that leaves no one behind. However, if these actions continue, soon we shall regress as a nation as regards these freedoms and our democracy.
Issued by
Rev. Dr Father Barnabas Simatende, OMI, PhD Chairperson – MISA Zambia
