STATE OF THE MEDIA IN ZAMBIA STATE OF THE MEDIA IN ZAMBIA of expressing their views, they may not feel safe as more governments are using legislation to stifle free speech. In the third quarter of 2019, it was reported by the Daily Nation Newspaper on 2 nd August, 2019 that the Inspector General of Police had instructed all Police Commissioners to “curb abusers of freedoms”. The Paper reported that: Inspector General of Police Kakoma Kanganja has directed all Police Commissioners to deal with people abusing their freedom of expression to insult, use hate speech and incite citizens to rise against a legitimately elected government. Mr Kanganja says the Constitution empowers police to deal with individuals who intend to disrupt peace in the country. The Police IG was further quoted saying: Of late, it has been observed that some people have been deliberately abusing their freedom of expression to the extent of inciting peace loving Zambians to rise against a legitimately elected government. Let me sound this warning that the Zambia Police Service will deal decisively with such people as provided for in the laws of Zambia. It must be noted that the pronouncement by the Police IG has potential to result into two issues. To start with, it is debatable as to what extent one goes before it is considered an abuse of freedom of expression and requiring stiff punishment from the police. Secondly, the directive by the Police IG has potential to lead to what is called self-censorship amongst people. The solution therefore, is to engage in sensitisation of the public on the responsible use of the various social media platforms and the internet in general. On a positive note, the quarter under review witnessed efforts at enhancing freedom of expression amongst people. On the 12th of August the Zambia Daily Mail newspaper publication carried a headline, “Community Radio as watchdog making listening clubs effective in holding civic leaders accountable.” The paper reported that the community of Kalomo are allowed a chance to engage in good governance through radio listening clubs. 24