Government Says ZNBC Journalist Charged Over Personal Conduct, Not Media Work

The Government says the arrest and detention of ZNBC journalist MacPherson Mukuka is not related to his work as a journalist, but concerns alleged offences committed in his personal capacity.

Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana said no individual is above the law and that Mukuka will be accorded due process through the courts.

Kawana explained that Mukuka's continued detention was not because police had denied him bond, but because no one had come forward to stand as surety despite police offering him police bond.

Meanwhile, Zambia Police Service Spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi confirmed that Mukuka has been formally charged with the offence of prohibiting the recording of a private conversation without prior notice, contrary to the Cyber Crimes Act No. 4 of 2025.

Chilabi said police remain ready to release Mukuka on police bond once suitable sureties are provided. He added that the matter has since been referred to the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) pending court proceedings.

Authorities emphasised that Mukuka remains presumed innocent until proven guilty, with the courts expected to determine the outcome of the case.

Kawana further rejected claims that the matter amounts to an attack on media freedom, maintaining that the case is unrelated to journalism and that the legal process should be allowed to proceed without interference.

He also stated that any disciplinary action regarding Mukuka's employment falls under the mandate of the ZNBC Board, stressing that ZNBC operates independently of the Ministry of Information and Media.

Addressing concerns over election coverage, Kawana also dismissed allegations that ZNBC has been unfair in its reporting, saying the national broadcaster continues to provide news coverage to opposition political parties.

He further explained that President Hakainde Hichilema's official tours are conducted in his capacity as Head of State, while noting that he also undertakes campaign activities separately as the UPND presidential candidate.