SECTOR 4 4.6 Journalists and editors do not practise self-censorship in in the private broadcasting and print media. Journalists and editors do practice self-censorship, to the extent that “some journalists know that writing a certain story is a waste of time because it won’t even be published.” This self-censorship occurs in both print and electronic media, and is “induced by fear”. “The worst form of censorship is self-censorship.” “Journalists are influenced by an agenda organised by top management,” which may often be misconstrued, with journalists writing what they think the editor wants. “This results in a failure by the journalists themselves to balance the story.” “Self-censorship begins at the time you are preparing the story.” There is influence from the owners of media houses, even in the case of the public media. “In public media, the Ministry of Information is the most feared office,” and this is how “self-censorship creeps in”. “Owners of media organisations will always have an influence on programmes and stories carried and published. In a nutshell, the agenda is driven by the owners.” In general, however, it appears that the levels of independence of journalists at different media houses vary, with some owners giving editors freedom to manage the process, while others “check on everything being published, even in cases where there is a policy around editorial independence”. Political influence may also invoke self-censorship at private media houses. In an editorial, The Post made a public apology around differences with president. It was also noted that at The Post, directors and/or shareholders are not allowed to have a direct influence on what is being published. This has resulted in some directors having removed themselves from the board “because they felt they should have an influence and receive favourable coverage”. 68 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER ZAMBIA 2013