The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) has dismissed claims circulating on social media that it has banned political campaign songs ahead of the 2026 general elections.
IBA Director General Webster Malido said the authority has no legal mandate to ban songs in Zambia.
He clarified that the IBA’s role is to regulate broadcasting services and guide stations on content standards.
Malido said the authority has issued guidance to all broadcasters on airing election-related content, including campaign songs and political advertisements.
He said the guidance requires stations to ensure such content does not promote hatred, division, hostility, or unverified allegations.
“Broadcasters are instead urged to promote responsible, issue-based political discourse that supports peaceful, fair, and credible elections, he stated.
The IBA said it routinely engages stations on compliance and will continue to guide broadcasters during the election period to uphold standards.
The authority has urged the public to rely on official IBA channels for accurate information and to disregard misinformation.
Francis Chipalo
