The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has called on journalists to uphold accuracy, fairness and objectivity when reporting on electoral matters ahead of the August 13, 2026 general elections.
Electoral Commission of Zambia Northern Province Electoral Officer (PEO) Alfred Nyambose says the media remains a critical partner in strengthening democracy by informing, and educating citizens on various electoral matters.
Speaking during the official opening of a media training workshop in Kasama District, Mr Nyambose commended the media for their commitment to promoting responsible journalism during the electoral process.
He said journalists reporting on elections need to understand the electoral legal framework, procedures, timelines and operational processes to enable them to provide accurate information to the public.
He noted that the August 13 2026 general election will introduce new aspects to the electoral process, including the mixed member proportional representation system, which requires adequate public understanding.
“The nationwide media training is part of ECZ’s broader strategy to enhance professional reporting before, during and after the elections, and the media is key especially with the fact there are new introductions in the electoral system like the mixed member proportional representation,” he said.
Mr Nyambose explained that the training provides an opportunity for journalists to engage with ECZ media trainers, ask questions, share experiences and gain practical knowledge on election reporting.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration between ECZ and the media in promoting transparency, credibility and public confidence in the electoral process.
Mr Nyambose further cautioned that inaccurate information can contribute to conflict, stressing the need for journalists to verify information before publication.
He further encouraged media practitioners to remain guided by principles of accuracy, fairness, impartiality and responsibility as the country prepares for the August 13, 2026 general elections.
Kasama District Electoral Officer John Mwanza has described the media as a key partner in promoting credible and peaceful elections.
In his welcoming remarks Mr Mwanza said the media plays a critical role in the electoral process by providing citizens with accurate information to enable them make informed decisions.
He noted that the media’s responsibility extends across all stages of the electoral cycle, from processes such as delimitation to campaigns and the upcoming 2026 general elections.
“Informed citizens are essential in promoting peaceful elections and strengthening democracy, the media then in this case comes in to offer professionalism in the way they write, and publish this information to the public,” he observed.
Mr Mwanza further called on media houses to continue providing timely and accurate information to the public, saying credible information contributes to free, fair, and acceptable elections.
He expressed confidence in the expertise of the master trainers and urged them to ensure the knowledge gained during the workshop is shared with other stakeholders across Northern Province.
The three day media training has so far attracted over 15 journalists from various media houses.
