The Government has warned operators of what it described as "rogue" social media pages against spreading false information capable of inciting public panic and undermining peace ahead of Zambia's general elections.
Speaking during a media briefing on Friday, Permanent Secretary for Information and Media Thabo Kawana dismissed reports circulating online that a young girl injured during the recent police operation in Kalingalinga and Mtendere had been struck by a live bullet.
Mr. Kawana said police investigations indicate the girl sustained injuries after being hit by a tear smoke canister, not a firearm, and challenged journalists to verify the facts before publishing or sharing such claims.
"If a bullet hits you, it doesn't scratch you. It means you have literally been shot," he said, adding that the child had since received treatment and was recovering.
The Permanent Secretary also took aim at several social media platforms, accusing them of repeatedly publishing what he described as fabricated stories, including claims that multiple people had been killed during the Kalingalinga incident and allegations that ballot papers were being secretly printed and transported by the military.
"Very soon, some of them will be very sorry for their activities," he warned, adding that those responsible would eventually be held accountable.
Mr. Kawana further noted that although some of the pages are hosted outside Zambia and operated by individuals in the diaspora, authorities are aware of their activities.
The briefing concluded with a reminder that Zambia remains in a five-day national mourning period following the death of former Vice President and Acting President Dr. Guy Scott, with the government urging citizens to continue observing the mourning period until his burial on Monday.
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