FPI Condemns Kalulushi Council Over Barring of Phoenix FM From Totaling Centre

by Pauline Ngozoh

The Zambia Free Press Initiative has condemned the Kalulushi Municipal Council for denying a Phoenix FM Zambia reporter access to the constituency totalling centre on the Copperbelt during the ongoing results process. FPI stated that the journalist was stopped at the entrance by council and Zambia Police officers who cited instructions barring Phoenix FM staff, despite the reporter producing valid accreditation and employer identification.

The organization described the lack of explanation for the denial as concerning, particularly at a time when public interest in election information is high following the August 13 General Election. FPI linked the incident to the station’s recent reporting on discrepancies between figures presented at the totalling centre and those recorded at polling stations, suggesting the restriction may have been a response to that coverage.

FPI emphasized that journalists must be permitted to report freely and independently on electoral proceedings without obstruction from state officers. It stressed that accredited members of the media have a right to unhindered access to election-related activities across the country.

The organization has called on all officers manning totalling centres to immediately lift any restrictions on media access and to respect the role of the press in promoting transparency and accountability.

FPI has further urged the Electoral Commission of Zambia to publicly clarify the grounds for the decision and to provide assurances that no accredited journalist will be prevented from performing lawful duties during the remaining stages of the electoral process.