3.0. Trends 3.1. Socio-political environment The social-political environment in the quarter under review was eventful given the activities leading up to the general elections in August. There was only one recorded incident of political violence against a media practitioner in the quarter, a trend which has lessened in comparison to previous quarters as highlighted in the second quarter State of the Media Report. On 23rd July, Victor Mwila, the Ikelen’gi District Information Officer was attacked by UPND cadres. The journalist sustained injuries and lost a camera, mobile phone and cash. The incident was condemned by Ministry of Information Permanent Secretary, Amos Malupenga; including MISA Zambia. Political violence against media practitioners must be nipped in the bud as it undermines the functions of the media in society by instilling selfcensorship. Self-censorship (for fear of political retribution) compromises the journalist’s professional editorial judgement in protecting public interest. 11