LUSAKA – As Zambia steadily approaches the pivotal 2026 general elections, the state of media freedom in the country has emerged as a critical point of discussion, with advocates asserting that the integrity of the democratic process will be significantly tested by the independence and impartiality of its journalists. Media rights organisations, both local and international, are sounding an alarm over what they perceive as a confluence of legal, economic, and political pressures that could impede fair and comprehensive election coverage.

While there have been some positive acknowledgements regarding the current administration's stance on media engagement, particularly in comparison to previous eras, concerns persist regarding the practical implementation of these commitments. Critics point to the continued existence of restrictive legislation, such as the Public Order Act, which, despite recent amendments, can still be weaponised to control public gatherings and, by extension, journalistic access to political events. Furthermore, the economic vulnerabilities of many media houses, often reliant on government advertising or facing financial precarity, create an environment susceptible to subtle and overt influence, potentially compromising editorial independence.

Political pressures are also a significant factor. As the election cycle heats up, there is an observable trend of increased scrutiny and sometimes intimidation directed at journalists perceived to be critical of the ruling party or sympathetic to the opposition. This can manifest in various forms, from online harassment campaigns to more direct threats, fostering a climate of self-censorship. The uneven distribution of access to government officials and resources, often favouring state-owned or aligned media, further exacerbates the challenge for independent outlets to provide balanced coverage.

Stakeholders are urging the Zambian government to not only uphold its constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression but to actively foster an enabling environment for the media. This includes reviewing and repealing outdated laws that stifle press freedom, ensuring equitable access to information for all media practitioners, and protecting journalists from harassment and intimidation regardless of their political leanings. The role of the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) is also under the spotlight, with calls for it to act as a truly impartial regulator rather than a tool for political control.

For Zambia to truly cement its democratic credentials, the period leading up to and during the 2026 elections must be characterised by a vibrant and unfettered media landscape. The ability of citizens to make informed choices relies heavily on diverse and unbiased news coverage. Failure to address these pressing concerns could not only undermine the credibility of the electoral process but also erode public trust in democratic institutions, a setback the nation can ill afford as it navigates complex socio-economic challenges.