Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Thabo Kawana, has urged the media to uphold accuracy and truthfulness, and to verify information before reporting, as they cover the upcoming by-elections scheduled for November 5th, 2026.

Mr Kawana says journalists have a responsibility to act as a mirror of society by providing the public with credible and factual information rather than just participating in the electoral process.

The Permanent Secretary was speaking at a press briefing organised by CIC Press in Lusaka today.

Mr Kawana stressed that the media has an important role to play in keeping the public informed, particularly at a time when social media platforms are awash with unverified information and propaganda.

“Your role is to give coverage so that the rest of the country remains informed with verified, critical and truthful information,” Mr Kawana said.

He also cautioned media organisations against giving prominence to sources whose information could promote disunity or harm other people.

Mr Kawana said the media should instead contribute to national unity by providing responsible reporting and information that contributes positively to national development.

He further noted that the media also has a role to play in advancing the government’s Grow Zambia Agenda by asking what individuals, groups and organisations can do to contribute to national development.

The Permanent Secretary said the growth of the country’s economy requires collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors.

Meanwhile, CIC Director, Edward Makayi, disclosed that his organisation has deployed 54 journalists and media professionals to cover by- elections in 11 selected districts of the country.

Mr Makayi said CIC will cover the Mandevu parliamentary by -elections in Lusaka, Lumezi North constituency in Eastern Province, alongside 10 other local government elections in selected parts of the country.

He further called for enhanced engagement between government and the media to strengthen collaboration and improve the working environment for journalists.

The Electoral Commission of Zambia set November 5th, 2026, as date for the holding of the Mbala Mayoral Election in Mbala District of Northern Province, the Lumezi Parliamentary Election in Lumezi Constituency of Lumezi District, Eastern Province, and the Mandevu Parliamentary Election in Mandevu Constituency, Lusaka District of Lusaka Province.

On the same day, the Commission will also conduct elections in 11 wards across the country.

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