closure of the radio station through his authority and connections if the radio station does not transfer or terminate contracts of certain members of staff. It is very concerning that his threats have not ended at the station but have spilled over to members of the public who participate in the radio programmes. This is against the democratic principles the people of Zambia have agreed to govern themselves by. Our call is that the Council Chairperson desist from harassing the Radio Station. The reported intimidation of staff and interference in the operations of Kasempa FM Radio makes sad reading. This is because such actions tend to undermine the functions of the press while instilling fear in media practitioners who may not exercise independent judgement for fear of retribution which was previously meted out through political violence. The Council Chairperson’s action is disappointing as the individual involved is a senior public official expected to be at the forefront of protecting the rule of law and implementing government policy, which includes promotion of a pluralistic media environment. The action is also irresponsible as the Independent Broadcasting Authority is the only institution mandated to regulate media houses in line with laid down procedures and codes of conduct that allow due process. As such, aggrieved members of the public-including politically influential persons must use the complaints procedure laid down by the IBA in the interest of safeguarding the independence of the media. It is, thus, hoped that the relevant authorities will censure the civic leader for his action. During the period under review, there was no recorded incident23 of political violence or physical attack on a media house as was the case in past quarters, particularly in 2021 where numerous cases of political violence against media outlets were recorded24. This is a positive development that could contribute to a conducive operating environment for media practitioners. This was also 23 Officially reported and recorded The MISA Freedom of Expression Report (2022) cites a total of 34 attacks as reported by journalists surveyed across the country. Of the 34, the majority (11) were at the hands of political party cadres and party officials. 24 29