STATE OF THE MEDIA REPORT QUARTER 3. 2020 interest. These tenets are critical if the media are to serve the public and contribute to the attainment of functional democracy. iii. Enactment of Media regulation and Access to Information Bills As a step forward, it is critical that the Access to Information Bill is enacted to improve ability of citizens to hold their government accountable. While consensus has been reached and Cabinet has approved the ZAMEC Bill for presentation to Parliament, it is critical that the enactment be approached cautiously with a guarantee of independence given some of the compromising traits observed in the existing regulatory institutions during the quarter under review. This is also in view of several existing laws that already stifle the freedom of expression. iv. Enforcement of the Electoral Code of Conduct. Stakeholders, including the ECZ, must ensure provisions of the Code are enforced with specific consideration of journalists who bear the brunt of electoral violence and attacks. This is critical because the country will soon commence activities of the electoral cycle such as voter registration and delimitation. Given the patterns observed in the first, second and third quarters of 2020, it is important that enforcement of the Code is upped during the forthcoming elections and dialogue meetings arranged to educate electoral players on the need to safeguard media freedom. v. Enhancement of autonomy and Independence of the IBA It is critical that independence of the IBA is guaranteed and the institution be given the necessary autonomy even in practice to professionally handle matters related to the broadcasting sector. This includes harmonisation of the IBA and ZNBC Acts to enable the Authority fully regulate ZNBC and other public broadcasters. Further, clarity must be provided on the status of the IBA Act with regard to regulation of broadcasting via social networks and the existing mandate of ZICTA. vi. Review of laws inimical to freedom of expression There is need for review of laws that continue to hinder the enjoyment of freedom of expression and other civil liberties as guaranteed by the Constitution. Further, there is need to make adequate provision for the protection of journalists and media outlets in view of the increased incidence of political violence and harassment. 37