Today, TI-Z joins the rest of the world in celebrating World Press Freedom Day, a day
dedicated to promoting and defending the freedom of the press, which is a cornerstone
of democracy and the rule of law. Press freedom is vital in holding governments and
institutions accountable, exposing corruption, and ensuring transparency in public
affairs.
The media plays a crucial role in promoting transparency and fighting corruption,
particularly through investigative journalism. Through rigorous research and reporting,
journalists have the power to uncover wrongdoing, expose corruption, and hold powerful
individuals and institutions accountable. Organizations such as TI-Z rely heavily on the
work of journalists to gather information and raise public awareness about corruption.
The media is essential in exposing corrupt practices and helping to create a more just
and fair society. For many years now, the media in Zambia has played this key role
admirably, and the need to continually create a conducive environment for them to
continue operating effectively cannot be overemphasized.
However, press freedom is not always guaranteed, and journalists often face significant
obstacles in carrying out their work. From harassment and intimidation to censorship
and imprisonment, journalists in Zambia and across the world are routinely targeted for
doing their job, thereby undermining the accountability agenda and denying citizens
critical information about governance and other issues.
It is for this reason that today’s celebration of World Press Freedom Day is so important.
We must continue to support and defend the freedom of the press, and work to create
an environment where journalists can operate freely and without fear of reprisal,
because in the absence of such a conducive environment, the quest for good
governance and accountability will remain a fallacy.
In conclusion, on this World Press Freedom Day, TI-Z urges all stakeholders in the
media and good governance landscape to recommit themselves to defending the
freedom of the press and to supporting the vital work of journalists in Zambia. By doing
so, we can all help to create a more just and transparent society, where corruption is
exposed and punished, and where the voices of all people are heard and valued.
Maurice K. Nyambe (Mr.)
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
