By: ZR Reporter
The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) has dismissed claims that it banned the Mundubile and Makebi’s political campaign song, saying its intervention was intended to guide broadcasters on responsible election coverage rather than restrict freedom of expression.
Speaking during an interview on ZNBC, IBA Director General Webster Malido said the Authority only advised a radio station after reviewing the song and identifying content it considered potentially harmful to national unity.
Malido said the song contained elements that appeared to promote tribalism, hatred and unsubstantiated allegations, prompting the regulator to engage the broadcaster concerned.
He stressed that the Authority did not prohibit the song from being played, but instead reminded broadcasters of their responsibility to ensure that content aired during the election period does not incite division or spread misinformation.
Malido said the IBA’s election guidelines require broadcasters to avoid content that promotes hatred, tribalism and inflammatory statements, regardless of the political party or candidate involved.
He further rejected accusations that the Authority was interfering with editorial independence, stating that freedom of expression remains protected under the Constitution and that the IBA has no intention of suppressing differing political views.
According to Malido, the regulator’s concern is ensuring that campaign materials aired on radio and television comply with broadcasting standards and contribute to peaceful and issue-based elections.
The controversy surrounding the song has sparked debate among media practitioners, politicians and members of the public, with some questioning whether the regulator’s actions amount to censorship, while others have supported efforts to prevent divisive content from dominating election campaigns.
As political campaigns intensify ahead of the August 2026 General Elections, the discussion is expected to keep focus on the delicate balance between protecting freedom of expression and safeguarding national cohesion.
©️Zambia Reports |5th May 2026