Zambia's media freedom under scrutiny ahead of 2026 elections

Zambia's media freedom advocates say the country's democratic progress will be tested by how freely journalists can report during the campaign period.

While media rights groups acknowledge improvements since President Hakainde Hichilema took office in 2021, they say structural, legal, and economic pressures continue to threaten independent journalism ahead of what is expected to be a highly contested vote.  

Concerns over fair political coverage Zambia

Opposition parties and media freedom groups say unequal access to public media remains one of the biggest concerns ahead of the elections.

"It has always been like that to a certain extent; it is even worse now," opposition National Democratic Party leader Saboi Imboela told DW, arguing state-owned media gives more coverage to the ruling party, while opposition voices largely rely on private outlets.  

Media analysts warn unequal visibility during elections can undermine public trust and democratic participation.

Zambia's media "more open, but still fragile"

The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zambia says the media environment has improved compared to previous years, but remains vulnerable.

"It is more open than in the past, but still fragile," MISA Zambia vice chairperson Kennedy Mbulo told DW. "Financial challenges, dependence on advertising, and political influence and pressure continue to affect editorial independence."  

According to media analysts, election periods often increase pressure on journalists, especially those covering corruption, governance, and political campaigns.

Journalists face legal and economic pressure

Zambian media rights advocates and stakeholders say several existing laws still create fear among journalists despite reforms introduced by the government.

"We still have a number of punitive laws that negatively affect journalism, including provisions on sedition in the Penal Code, the State Security Act, and cyber laws," said Joan Chirwa, the executive director of the Free Press Initiative.  

At the same time, economic struggles within the media industry are making newsrooms more uncertain.

"Financial vulnerability makes media institutions more susceptible to influence, especially from advertisers and political actors," said Costa Mwansa, President of the Media Owners Association of Zambia, in a recent media statement.  

Journalists also cite low pay, job insecurity, and difficulties accessing public information despite the implementation of Zambia's Access to Information law in 2024.  

Digital media reshaping election coverage

As campaigning increasingly shifts online, Zambia's growing digital space is creating both opportunities and risks.

Citizen journalism and online platforms are widening participation and allowing younger voters to engage politically. But media observers warn misinformation, online harassment, and political propaganda could intensify during the election period.

Even legislation introduced to protect citizens from malicious online activity, such as Zambia's cyber laws, have been criticized for infringing on individual rights. 

Trade unionist and media analyst Fletcher Mushimbwa says Zambia has made progress but must strengthen institutions to protect those gains.

"The key issue now is consolidating these gains through stronger institutions and reforms," Mushimbwa told DW.  

Government defends record on media freedom

The government says it remains committed to democratic freedoms and professional journalism.

"We have consistently demonstrated our commitment to media freedom and professionalism," Information and Media minister Cornelius Mweetwa told journalists at a news briefing in Lusaka recently. He added that journalists are free to operate, but they must do so "responsibly and ethically."

Mweetwa also cited the Access to Information Act as a major reform aimed at widening democratic space.  

Elections seen as key test for Zambian press freedom

Media experts say the upcoming elections will be an important measure of Zambia's democratic maturity and commitment to press freedom.

"Press freedom is not just about laws," Chirwa said. "It's about creating an environment where journalists can work freely, safely, and sustainably."

As Zambia moves closer to election day, journalists and rights groups say ensuring fair coverage, protecting independent reporting, and combating misinformation will be critical to maintaining public trust in the electoral process.

Can Zambia's opposition deliver?

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Edited by Cai Nebe