Zambia: three broadcasting stations suspended licenses

Zambia's broadcasting regulator on Monday suspended licenses for one television and two radio stations for alleged unprofessional conduct.

The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) suspended licenses of the private Muvi Television, Komboni and Itezh-tezhi radio stations following a meeting held by its board, said a statement seen by Xinhua.

The regulator said it decided to suspend the licenses of the three stations "for alleged unprofessional conduct which posed a risk to national peace and stability".

"The Authority has observed that before, during and after the August 11 elections the three broadcasting stations have been conducting themselves in an unprofessional manner contrary to the provisions of the IBA Act. It has therefore become necessary for the Authority to suspend the licenses for the three stations in public interest," said the statement.

The three broadcasting stations could appeal the decision, the statement added.

In July this year, the government published a code of conduct for radio and television stations as a way to regulate the industry.

The aim is to ensure that the country's 96 radio station and 33 television stations assume responsibility in terms of content provision and professional conduct. Endit