IBA Directs Broadcasters to Adhere to Election Coverage Guidelines Ahead of Polls

By Pauline Ngozoh

The Independent Broadcasting Authority has directed media houses to comply strictly with the 2026 Election Coverage Guidelines as Zambia prepares to go to the polls on Thursday, August 13.

During a press briefing held on Monday, IBA Director-General Webster Malido cautioned broadcasters against airing speculative election results, campaign interviews, and opinion poll findings during the critical voting period. He emphasized that all election-related content must be accurate, balanced, fair, and verified before broadcast.

The Authority outlined specific restrictions for the election period. Broadcasters are permitted to report on the progress of voting, counting, and tallying, but they are prohibited from announcing projected, speculative, or unverified results. Official election results should only be broadcast once they have been announced by the Electoral Commission of Zambia. In addition, campaign interviews featuring political parties or candidates, as well as predictions of election outcomes, should not be aired on election day.

Malido also urged media houses to exercise caution when sourcing information from social media, political actors, commentators, and other unofficial channels to prevent the spread of misinformation and unverified reports. Broadcasters were reminded to provide fair and equitable coverage to all political parties and candidates, while avoiding content that promotes hate speech, tribalism, or violence. The IBA stated that it will continue monitoring election-related broadcasts throughout the electoral period to ensure compliance with the law and the guidelines.

The Authority further clarified the complaints procedure for the public, political parties, and candidates regarding election coverage. Initial complaints must be lodged with the concerned broadcasting station, which is required to respond within two days during the election period. If the matter remains unresolved or the complainant is dissatisfied with the station’s response, it may then be escalated to the IBA for investigation and possible action.