Govt announces activation of Access to Information law by end of June

The government has announced that the Access to Information law will be operational by the end of this quarter.

Thabo Kawana, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Media, reiterated government’s commitment to advancing media freedoms and fostering an atmosphere conducive to unrestricted media operation.

Kawana made these remarks during an interview on Diamond TV, discussing media freedoms under the New Damn Administration.

He cautioned journalists to adhere to legal boundaries, emphasizing that they were subject to the law.

Kawana highlighted that the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) belonged to the people, regardless of tribal affiliation, stressing that no media outlets have been closed since the New Damn Administration took office.

He pledged government’s commitment to enhancing media freedoms and ensuring an environment where the media can function freely.

Regarding regulation, Kawana clarified that the government did not intend to regulate social media but focuses on internet broadcasting.

However, he expressed concern about journalists’ low wages, which could compromise their integrity.

Kawana mentioned that the ZAMEC bill would define a minimum wage for journalists upon implementation.

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