Be loyal to the people of Zambia and not individuals – Katema

Information and Broadcasting Services Minister Joseph Katema says media houses should have their loyalty to the people of Zambia and not individuals with their private agendas.

Speaking during the launch of the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Code of Ethics and Complaints Procedure in Lusaka today, Dr. Katema says the media should be more professional in the way they execute their duties.

Dr. Katema who is also Chief Government Spokesperson has reiterated that government has no plans and will never interfere in the operations of the media, stating that the Patriotic Front is committed to having a free, independent and professional media at all costs.

He says it is therefore important for the media to always remember that press freedom like all other freedoms is not like a blank cheque on which one can write anything but it is equidistant to responsibility.

Dr Katema adds that it is therefore important for the media to pay attention and understand the complaints procedure to have their work easy in collaboration with IBA.

And speaking earlier, IBA Director General Josephine Mapoma says the launch of the document does not in any way suggest that editorial policies for media houses are null and void.

Ms Mapoma explains that the document is meant to support editorial policies on the one hand and protect the public on the other.

She has since expressed confidence that the document will enhance the work that the broadcasters are already carrying out and promote professionalism among broadcasters in the country.

( Wednesday 03rd September 2014 )