Zambia's media freedom under scrutiny ahead of 2026 elections

Zambia's media freedom advocates say the country's democratic progress will be tested by how freely journalists can report during the campaign period. While media rights groups acknowledge improvements since President Hakainde Hichilema took office in 2021, they say structural, legal, and economic pressures continue to threaten independent journalism ahead of what is expected to be a highly contested vote. Opposition parties and media freedom groups say unequal access to public media remains one

"It has always been like that to a certain extent; it is even worse now," opposition National Democratic Party leader Saboi Imboela told DW, arguing state-owned media gives more coverage to the ruling party, while opposition voices largely rely on private outlets. Media analysts warn unequal visibility during elections can undermine public trust and democratic participation. The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zambia says the media environment has improved compared to previous years, but remains vulnerable. "It is more open than in the past, but still fragile," MISA Zambia vice chairperson Kennedy Mbulo told DW. "Financial challenges, dependence on advertising, and political influence and pressure continue to affect editorial independence." According to media analysts, election periods often increase pressure on journalists, especially those covering corruption, governance, and political campaigns. Zambian media rights advocates and stakeholders say several existing laws still create fear among journalists despite reforms introduced by the government. "We still have a number of punitive laws that negatively affect journalism, including provisions on sedition in the Penal Code, the State Security Act, and cyber laws," said Joan Chirwa, the executive director of the Free Press Initiative. Joan Chirwa, executive director of the Free Press Initiative, says Zambia's legal system does not fully protect journalism practices Image: Ayse Tasci/DW At the same time, economic struggles within the media industry are making newsrooms more uncertain. "Financial vulnerability makes media institutions more susceptible to influence, especially from advertisers and political actors," said Costa Mwansa, President of the Media Owners Association of Zambia, in a recent media statement. Journalists also cite low pay, job insecurity, and difficulties accessing public information despite the implementation of Zambia's Access to Information law in 2024. As campaigning increasingly shifts online, Zambia's growing digital space is creating both opportunities and risks. Citizen journalism and online platforms are widening participation and allowing younger voters to engage politically.

Key points

• "It has always been like that to a certain extent; it is even worse now," opposition National Democratic Party leader Saboi Imboela told DW, arguing state-owned media gives more coverage to the rul…
• Media analysts warn unequal visibility during elections can undermine public trust and democratic participation.
• The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zambia says the media environment has improved compared to previous years, but remains vulnerable.
• "It is more open than in the past, but still fragile," MISA Zambia vice chairperson Kennedy Mbulo told DW.
• "Financial challenges, dependence on advertising, and political influence and pressure continue to affect editorial independence." According to media analysts, election periods often increase press…