FPI applauds Govt for committing to media self-regulation mechanism

THE Free Press Initiative (FPI) has commended Information and Media Minister Cornelius Mweetwa and the UPND government for committing to promote pure self-regulation of the media in Zambia.

FPI founder Joan Chirwa said the official presentation of the Code of Ethics for journalists and media practitioners to Mr Mweetwa by the Media Self-Regulation Council last week marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of journalistic integrity and responsibility.

She said the FPI is happy that Mr Mweetwa reaffirmed what President Hakainde Hichilema has emphasised on many occasions that the media must self-regulate because they are an important part of democracy.

“The FPI therefore recognises the importance of establishing a unified Code of Ethics developed to guide both public and private media institutions, ensuring adherence to principles of truth, accuracy, and accountability. Mr Mweetwa's call that all media personnel should subscribe to the Code of Ethics reflects a profound understanding of the pivotal role Journalists play in shaping public discourse and upholding democratic values.

Ms Chirwa said the FPI therefore stood in solidarity with Mr Mweetwa and the UPND government in their efforts to strengthen the media industry and promote responsible journalism through the pure self-regulation mechanism.

She said FPI was dedicated to safeguarding press freedoms and championing ethical journalism and pledged its full support in the advancement of objectives outlined by the Media Self-Regulation mechanism and its Code of Ethics.