World Press Freedom Committee urges Shamenda to present FIB to parley

The 2012 World Press Freedom Day (WPFS) Organizing Committee has praised government for committing itself towards enhancing freedom of information, media accountability and transparency in the country’s governance process.

Committee chairperson Anthony Mulowa said a free media was key to easing decision making processes of the country.

Mr. Mulowa charged that the free flow of information can help empower individuals to take full control of their aspirations and enable shape their political and social concerns.

He said this in a speech read on his behalf by Committee Member Pauline Songiso at the preparatory meeting on the forthcoming World Press Freedom Day.

This year’s World Press Freedom Day will be held under the theme: New Voices: Media freedom helping to transform societies.

Mr. Mulowa has since urged Information, Broadcasting and Labour Minister, Fackson Shamenda to emulate his predecessor Given Lubinda in championing the presentation of the Freedom of Information (FIB) bill to the next sitting of parliament.

He said his committee was confident that Mr. Shamenda will attach great importance to the issue by ensuring that the bill is enacted before July this year.

Mr. Mulowa added that government should also speed up the implementation of other media reforms such as the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) and the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) Act.

He stated that media bodies in the country will remain resolute to ensuring that media reforms come to fruition

Meanwhile, Mr. Mulowa said his committee will soon organize a media conference which will collectively strategize and advocate for the speedy enactment of an act of parliament that will enshrine access to information and freedom of information.

He said this is a prerequisite to a strong democracy and transformed society.

ZANIS