Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana has urged journalists to uphold accuracy and factual reporting before, during and after elections.

Speaking during the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Election Capacity Building Programme at Protea Hotel in Ndola, Mr Kawana said journalists must verify information with credible sources before publishing or broadcasting it.

He warned that the rise of artificial intelligence, misinformation and disinformation has increased the risk of spreading false information, particularly through social media.

Mr Kawana cautioned journalists against rushing to break stories without first fact-checking, saying the desire to be first should never come at the expense of accuracy.

“Do not rush to chase a scoop. In this era of artificial intelligence, misinformation, and disinformation, social media is flooded with content. If you fail to fact-check and rush to broadcast just to be first, you risk sharing news that is false,” he said.

He noted that misinformation often results from poor sourcing or misunderstanding of information, while disinformation is deliberately created to mislead the public.

Mr Kawana urged media practitioners to remain vigilant and prioritise verification over speed cautioning media houses to operate within the confines of the law as those found violating the law would face legal action.

Mr Kawana further called on journalists to uphold professional ethics by producing balanced reports that give all parties an opportunity to be heard.

“So the best is let us ensure that we work within the confines of the law

and ensure that our reporting is not injurious to either parties and also ensure that when we report, it is in line with the ethics of journalism,

our stories are balanced,” he said.

He noted that Zambia has no law granting journalists special legal privileges, adding that media practitioners enjoy the same constitutional rights and are subject to the same legal obligations as all citizens.

Mr Kawana explained that the law prohibits the recording, interception, possession or circulation of private communications without lawful authority.

Meanwhile, Independent Broadcasting Authority Board Member Benson Banda said the capacity-building programme would strengthen the media’s ability to provide accurate, balanced and responsible election coverage.

Mr Banda said the media plays a critical role in shaping public opinion, promoting transparency and enhancing public confidence in the electoral process.

“I urge all journalists to continue providing objective and factual information to enable citizens to make informed decisions and contribute to peaceful, credible and inclusive elections,” he said.

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