Information Minister Kampamba Mulenga has condemned the harassment of journalists by UPND cadres this morning.

In a statement, Mulenga, who is also Chief Government Spokesperson, described the incident as primitive.

“Government strongly condemns the violence against journalists at the hands of United Party for National Development (UPND) cadres at the party’s secretariat in Lusaka today. Journalists from the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC), Radio Phoenix and Millennium Radio were attacked during a press briefing addressed by UNPD leader Mr. Hakainde Hichilema. This barbaric act is not only primitive but a serious assault on the freedom of the press,” Mulenga stated.

“The media are key in the dissemination of quality information which is a fundamental prerequisite in a democracy like Zambia. It is shameful and unfortunate that the UPND has failed to realize this fact and have instead turned against people they are supposed to protect and support. This type of hooliganism and barbarism cannot be condoned and should be condemned by all peace loving Zambians and true democrats.”

Mulenga asked law enforcement agencies to investigate the matter.

“Government, therefore, calls upon law enforcement agencies to investigate the matter and ensure that the assailants are brought to book. I reiterate Government’s commitment to uphold and defend the rights of Journalists. Journalists need to do their work without fear or intimidation from any individual or political party including the UPND. Journalists have a responsibility to their audiences to gather news objectively and to report facts,” said Mulenga.