COMPETITION FOR FAKE NEWS

Dear Editor

A very clear media pattern in Zambia has emerged. In the print media two newspapers have emerged as the frontrunners in their seeking out fake news which they will always give prominence of the front page.

In the electronic media Prime TV has emerged with its equally unschooled presenter as leaders in offering totally un-researched material which is intended to give a very jaundiced view of the Government and its leadership.

The impression created is that journalism is about being antagonistic, however ignorantly. This should not be the case because journalists the world over have a duty to inform. This is a sacred duty which must be performed regardless of the political orientation of the presenter.

It is one thing to choose topics that favour a political disposition but completely another thing to distort information.

A good example is the coverage on the Natural Resources Development College campus and the intention to move it out of Lusaka.

A fair and balanced view is that Government is in discussion with AVIC, a Chinese company, for the campus to be moved to a more spacious area in Mumbwa where students will have more space for their practical unlike in the present location which is hardly suitable for any extensive agriculture.

The rational for the project is very sound but obviously the Government is cagey about details because there must be a very concrete proposal including drawings and valuation of the new site. These have not been done.

Therefore to suggest as HH did that the land has been sold is being malicious and totally unhelpful and yet his media especially on social media have been presenting this as a fact. Something must be done to stop these misleading publications which can easily bring about strife and consternation in the country .

Christopher Chimfwembe