STATE OF THE MEDIA IN ZAMBA What is evident though, is that the hope for a freer media in Zambia is ever getting farfetched going by the recent events recorded in the quarter being reviewed and the entire 2016. The consolidation of press freedom and freedom of expression in Zambia suffered further setbacks in the quarter under review as demonstrated. Political interference, sheer police and political cadres’ brutality against journalists has continued. The media fraternity was equally not spared from lawsuits. Stakeholders, including political parties, the police and members of the general public have been constantly urged to afford a safe operating environment for the journalists to fulfil the information needs of society. It is a call that must be sustained and more pronounced. Their safety and protection ensures that they provide timely and quality information to society to inform their choices and decisions. Media bodies should continue calling upon government and other stakeholders to be generous enough and ensure that those liberal media environment is achieved through the enactment of laws such as the Access to Information bill. 9.0 Recommendations The following are the recommendations drawn from the review; a) Enactment of the ATI - It is recommended that government keeps its word on the enactment of this very important piece of legislation to enhance access to information by the general public about the way the country is run. This will enhance the fight against corruption as well as improve accountability among those that hold public office. b) IBA enhanced legislation-IBA must seek to be given legislated powers to regulate ZNBC as one of the major players in the broadcast industry in order to level the playing field for all industry players. There must be only one law to apply to all institutions regardless of ownership or otherwise. This will be a fairer way of regulating the sector. 28 | P a g e