Non-governmnetal Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) to rescind decision and reinstate Prime Television’s Broadcasting License

Press Statement
For Immediate Release

Friday 10th April 2020

NGOCC URGES IBA TO REINSTATE PRIME TELEVISION LICENSE

The Non-governmnetal Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has noted with concern the drastic decision by the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) to suspend the operating license of Prime Television in “public interest.”

This decision without doubt negates the fundamental rights of press freedom and freedom of expression that are guaranteed and provided for in the Republican Constitution. The role of a free and independent press cannot be overemphasized in a young democracy like ours. An independent and free press is critical in nurturing the growth of a democratic State as citizens depend on the unhindered flow of information to make informed decisions. There is no doubt that Zambians were and are dependent on Prime Television and other media organisations for information. The underlying principle is that media diversity and pluralism is an important ingredient in any given democracy.

Gerald Shawa

We therefore appeal to the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) to immediately rescind their decision and reinstate Prime television. As a women’s movement, we regard the media as a critical player in the governance of the country which can negatively be affected by any efforts to muzzle the press. We appeal to the Minister of Information, Hon. Dora Siliya, to preside over this matter and reconsider the decision of the IBA. It is in the interest of the Government to protect its reputation against accusations of being authoritative against independent media.

In conclusion, we reiterate the words of the late Nelson Mandela, that “A critical, independent and investigative press is the lifeblood of any democracy. The press must be free from state interference. It must have the economic strength to stand up to the blandishments of government officials. It must have sufficient independence from vested interests to be bold and inquiring without fear or favour. It must enjoy the protection of the Constitution, so that it can protect our rights as citizens.”

ISSUED;
for/ NGOCC

Engwase B. Mwale
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR