STATE OF THE MEDIA IN ZAMBIA John Mambo however said he had no evidence to support his earlier claim that the Judges who handled the matter were corrupt11. In another case, different from journalists, Media 365, a company behind the production of the famous soap opera “Love Games” was sued for using two songs in their production without the artists‟ permission. The Times of Zambia on 25th August reported that two local artistes sued Media 365 for allegedly using their two songs in their series of movies without their consent12. Thomas Mvula and Brian Ngubu have asked the Lusaka High Court to order the media outlet to pay them damages of K200, 000 for use of the two songs and loss of opportunity and business. Mr. Mvula and Mr. Ngubu want a declaration that they are the rightful owners of the songs “Love songs” and “Everyday”. 4.3.4 Threatened Similar to trends in previous quarters, the media continues receiving threats from government authorities, sometimes political cadres – PF cadres to be specific. The third quarter saw an increase in the number of threats issued to the media following a few publications that led to court cases. Chief Government Spokesperson Dora Siliya acknowledged that the media is allowed to criticize government to a certain degree13. However in her calls to the media to offer criticism to government, she was quick to caution media houses using language which government deems offensive. The warning followed National Democratic Congress (NDC) political consultant and Roan PF member of parliament Chishimba Kambwili who was quoted by News Diggers saying “We don’t have a President in the country, what we have is someone who talks like an empty tin that has no idea on how to lead the country.” 11 Lusaka Times – Bishop Mambo Pleads Guilty – 23rd August, 2018 Times of Zambia – Two artists sue Media 365 over songs – 25th August, 2018 13 The Mast – It‟s ok to criticize government – 2nd August, 2018 12 13