The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zambia is concerned with trumped-up charges against some journalists and the continued existence of oppressive colonial laws in our statutes which are being applied on Zambians and journalists as a means of suppressing criticism.
MISA Zambia is concerned with the charges that were slapped against journalist Wilson Pondamali by the Police of Attempted Escape from lawful Custody and Malicious Damage to Government Property because at the time he was trying to leave the court grounds he had been granted bail.
Similar charges face five other journalists who have been critical of government.
In view of above stated situation, MISA Zambia calls on government to drop the charges against them immediately while we note with delight the acquittal of Mr Pondamali on the above charge of attempted escape. We call on the government to also conclude the constitution making process that contains progressive articles on media freedom and freedom of expression in order to guarantee key democratic rights.
The law reforms process should include the repeal of the current Penal Code which criminalises criticising the President and publication of critical news against the state. Such charges come in the form that is vaguely stated as publication of false news with intention to cause fear and alarm found in section 67 of the Penal Code.
As MISA Zambia, we believe laws are being used wrongly by the state to suppress freedom of expression and of the media even though they have no place in this democratic state.
Hellen Mwale
Acting Chairperson – MISA Zambia
Stupi d Misa.Are journalist anjels or untouchebles?They slander,misinform,lie,alarm,charector assissnate etc.Do they’ve regards for the democratic values and human rights of others?While u want treatment befiting them but should respect others too.