In the wake of the Patriotic Front (PF) and its aligned social media and television platforms circulating a video from four years ago purporting that the events therein happened during the Kambwilis’ funeral on October 20, the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) has cautioned broadcasting stations against using unverified information and footage.
The IBA states that stations must exercise due diligence, fact-check, and verify information to ensure their programming reflects accurate and credible information.
“This responsibility is inescapable as misinformation can threaten the public peace, security, welfare, or good order,” stated Susen Ndumingu, the acting Director General.
Ndumingu said the Authority had noted the apology issued by the PF-aligned Kenmark Broadcasting Network Television (KBN TV) for using video footage of an old event purporting that it was a recent attack on former president Edgar Lungu during the funeral of Chishimba Kambwili’s two recently deceased brothers in Chingola on October 20.
However, it soon emerged that the video footage in question was from an event four years ago when the motorcade of the current head of state, then an opposition leader, was stoned by PF cadres in full view of the Zambia Police officers.
The IBA warned that in its commitment to upholding licensees accountable, it would not hesitate to take the necessary action against stations that fail to uphold their ethical obligations in their programming.
Radio and television stations have been reminded to adhere to the highest standards of journalistic professionalism in accordance with the law.
Various PF party platforms, including Emmanuel Mwamba, shared the video but later pulled it down after being confronted with the truth.
