Panos Institute Southern Africa (PSAf), Executive Director Vusumuzi Sifile, has urged politicians to foster an environment that allows the media to operate freely, professionally, and without undue influence.
Speaking in an interview with RCV News in Lusaka, Mr. Sifile emphasized that safeguarding media independence is vital for ensuring ethical, balanced, and credible journalism, particularly during election periods.
“Politicians must allow journalists to work within the professional boundaries of their roles, especially during elections, to avoid compromising their ability to effectively combat misinformation and disinformation,” said Mr. Sifile.
Mr. Sifile expressed concern over the growing trend of some politicians attempting to “own” journalists during campaigns, treating them as personal mouthpieces rather than independent professionals.
He described such behavior as harmful to ethical reporting and detrimental to democratic processes.
By Betty Kakoma
