Civil Society organizations commend media bodies on self regulation

The Civil Society Organisations have commended the media for coming up with a self regulatory body.
The Media Liaison Committee last week announced that it will officially launch its self-regulatory Zambia Media Council (ZAMEC) by 3rd May 2010.

Southern Africa Council for Constructive Resolutions of Dispute (SACCORD) and the Gender Media in Southern Africa (GEMSA) have since advised the media to adhere to the rules that they will come up with by being factual and objective in their reporting.

Speaking in separate interviews with ZANIS in Lusaka, SACCORD Information Officer Obby Chibuluma said the move to have a self media regulatory body will go a long way in assisting the media to have self confidence and win the confidence of the general public.

Mr. Chibuluma noted that this will also help the media to operate at the same level as they will have the same set of rules governing them.

He said for a long time now some media organizations have lacked public confidence and support because of their different rules of operation.

Mr. Chibuluma added that the self-regulatory mechanism will also help to strengthen the capacity of the media to contribute positively to the development process of the country through effective reporting.
He further urged all media organizations in the country to participate and support the process if it is to save its intended purpose.

And GEMSA Chairperson Madube Siyauya said having a media that regulates itself will contribute to press freedom in the country.

Mrs. Siyauya stated that this will also enhance the media access to various information of public interest.
She pointed out that the set rules and regulations will compel the media to improve their coverage of marginalized groups such as women and children.

She has since challenged the media to be professional and ensure that they strictly follow the rules that they will come up with by not violating people’s rights but rather provide information that will make people make informed decisions for the betterment of the country.

Mrs. Siyauya added that the media being the fourth estate of the country, there is need for it to be responsible and participate in national development.

ZANIS