MISA Zambia Urges Journalists to Remain Voter-Centred Ahead of 2026 Elections

By Staff Reporter,

The Media Institute of Southern Africa – Zambia (MISA Zambia) Country Director, Austin Kayanda, has called on journalists to remain voter-centred in their coverage ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Speaking in Lusaka during a two-day election reporting workshop for journalists, Mr. Kayanda cautioned media practitioners against prioritising political interests over the needs and concerns of the electorate.

He stressed that journalists have a duty to scrutinise individuals seeking public office on behalf of citizens, ensuring that voters are provided with accurate, balanced, and issue-based information to make informed decisions.

Mr. Kayanda also urged journalists to engage responsibly with Artificial Intelligence tools, warning against the dangers of misinformation and emphasizing the importance of strict verification standards in the digital age.