The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) has cautioned broadcasting stations to verify information before it is broadcasted, following false reports of the alleged death of Alex Mulyokela.
In a statement issued to the media in Lusaka today, IBA Director of Corporate Communication, Katendi Wandi, said the recent incident involving false claims about Mr Mulyokela’s death highlights a worrying lapse in journalistic standards.
Ms Wandi stressed that the spread of inaccurate reports not only undermines public trust in the media but also causes unnecessary distress to individuals, families and the wider community.
She said the Authority has observed that some broadcasting stations rely on unverified information circulating on social media platforms, noting that while social media platforms may provide useful leads, information obtained from them should be verified through credible sources before being broadcast.
Ms Wandi urged broadcasters to uphold the principles of accuracy, fairness and verification in all news bulletins, programmes and public announcements.
She also reminded stations of their legal obligations under Section 24 (1) (e) of the IBA (Amendment) Act No. 26 of 2010, which requires broadcasters to maintain the highest standards of journalistic professionalism.
