By Francis Chipalo
Free Press Initiative founder Joan Chirwa says World Press Freedom Day commemorations are meaningless unless authorities act on continued attacks against journalists and the use of restrictive laws.
“Same promises. Same commitments. Little acknowledgment of the real challenges facing the media,” Chirwa said in a post day after the 3 May global event.
The veteran scribe cited recent incidents including the assault of a journalist and the storming of a radio station by political party supporters in the presence of law enforcement officers.
Chirwa also condemned the “continued use of restrictive laws such as sedition against critical voices,” saying such practices undermine media freedom.
She further questioned the postponement of RightsCon, a digital rights conference that was scheduled in Lusaka and tied to global World Press Freedom Day celebrations organised by UNESCO.
“Commemorating this day means very little if decision-makers refuse to confront what is happening and take practical steps to stop it,” she said.
Chirwa rejected the notion that fewer reported violations should draw praise.
“A reduction in violations compared to previous years is not a benchmark for praise. Let the words match the actions,” she added.
Zambia yesterday joined the rest of world in “celebrating press freedom day”.