New Rules for Election Broadcasters
By Francis Maingaila
Lusaka, Zambia24 -- (26-05-2026) --- The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) has introduced new rules for election broadcasters aimed at promoting fair, balanced, accurate and responsible media coverage ahead of Zambia’s 2026 General Elections scheduled for August this year.
IBA Director General said the guidelines have been developed to provide practical direction to broadcasters in their coverage of elections and election-related matters.
IBA Director General Webster Malido said the guidelines have been developed to provide practical direction to broadcasters in their coverage of elections and election-related matters.
Mr. Malido explained that the guidelines provide clearer direction on the responsibilities of broadcasters during election periods and set out standards expected of media houses when covering political activities.
He said the framework is intended to ensure that citizens receive accurate and balanced information necessary to make informed electoral decisions.
Among the key provisions is the requirement for fair and balanced election reporting to ensure equitable and impartial coverage of all political parties and candidates.
The guidelines also require broadcasting stations to allocate advertising airtime equitably, ensuring fair access for political parties and candidates during campaigns.
Mr. Malido further said the rules cover the conduct of political interviews and debates, requiring broadcasters to maintain fairness, professionalism and impartiality.
On opinion polls, broadcasters are required to disclose sources, sponsors, sample sizes and other relevant details whenever polls are aired.
The guidelines also regulate polling day coverage, including the prohibition of campaign interviews for political parties and independent candidates, as well as the banning of election result predictions before official announcements.
Mr. Malido said only verified and officially confirmed results will be allowed for broadcast.
He added that broadcasters will be required to respond to election-related complaints within two days, while the IBA is expected to conclude investigations within four days and issue appropriate directives where necessary.
The IBA warned broadcasters against airing hate speech, tribalism, incitement to violence, misinformation and any unverified election-related content that could undermine peace, national unity and the integrity of the electoral process.
Editorial independence and advisory guidance
Mr. Malido also addressed public interest concerns regarding a scheduled interview programme on one of the television stations that was expected to feature Liberal Democratic Party leader Mr. Saviour Chishimba (referred to in some reports as Saviour Jungle).
He clarified that the IBA does not preview, edit, approve or censor broadcast programmes prior to transmission, stressing that broadcasting stations retain full editorial independence and remain responsible for the content they choose to air in line with Zambian laws and broadcasting standards.
However, he noted that broadcasters may seek advisory guidance from the Authority on matters relating to broadcasting standards and ethical conduct where clarification is needed.
He said in line with the IBA Act No. 17 of 2002, the Authority may issue advisory opinions when necessary, but such guidance does not amount to prior approval, censorship or editorial control of programme content.
Mr. Malido further reiterated that the IBA remains committed to promoting a free, responsible and professional broadcasting sector that upholds freedom of expression while ensuring compliance with the law.
In in reference to claims that the IBA orders Millennium TV not to air ex-Spy boss, Xavier Chungu's interview, he said the Authority has not issued any directive to suspend or cancel any programme content, including interview sessions, as long as broadcasters operate within the legal and regulatory framework.
The guidelines apply to all broadcasting stations in Zambia in line with the Electoral Process Act, particularly provisions on the media’s role during elections.
The Authority said it will closely monitor election coverage across all broadcasting stations to ensure compliance with the guidelines and applicable broadcasting regulations throughout the electoral period.
IBA has since called on all broadcasters to familiarize themselves with the guidelines, which were approved during its 45th Board Meeting held on May 20, 2026.
Mr. Malido reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to ensuring a broadcasting environment that supports free, fair, peaceful and credible elections in Zambia.
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