MISA Zambia condemns Kambwili for harassing UNZA journalists – calls act undemocratic

In a press statement, Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zambia condemns in the strongest terms the harassment of UNZA student journalists by Youth and Sport Minister Chishimba Kambwili. 

MISA Zambia is calling on HON Kambwili to tame his undemocratic outbursts and conduct because it is a threat to democracy. 

We are concerned that he stormed UNZA Radio and threatened student journalists at the institution. This behavior is not only unfavourable for democratic growth but is dangerous to academic freedom and freedom of expression in Zambia. 

It is further very frightening for a whole Minister to drive to UNZA Radio and verbally threaten students. This conduct is likely to have a long term psychological effects on the young students. It also sets a very bad example to the youths and the students as regards respect for a very cardinal human right which is freedom of expression. 

We urge the minister to behave in an exemplary manner which is also in line with democratic principles. 

Based on the above, we urge Mr Kambwili to retract his threats and control his outbursts in order for students to learn in a conducive environment and also for them to appreciate and grow to respect the right to freedom of expression. 

MISA Zambia Chairperson 

Ms Hellen Mwale 

9 October 2014.