Kanchibiya Member of Parliament (MP), Hon. Sunday Chanda, has issued a strong condemnation of the recent circulation of fake news that he says is harming Zambia’s international reputation. In a press statement released on January 14, 2025, Chanda called on Zambians to prioritize truth and engage in responsible political discourse, especially in light of a false story alleging that Zambia had been blacklisted and expelled from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHCR).
The story, which Chanda described as “irresponsible and baseless,” has been linked to some opposition figures, including former senior government officials. According to Chanda, the spread of such misinformation not only misleads the public but also puts Zambia’s reputation at risk on the global stage.
“This false narrative, amplified by certain individuals within the opposition, is not just misleading; it is harmful to Zambia’s image,” Chanda stated. “It undermines our democracy, erodes public trust, and risks alienating Zambia from the international community.” He emphasized that those in leadership, whether in government or opposition, have a responsibility to protect the country’s interests, not harm them with fabricated stories.
The United Nations in Zambia has since issued a clarification, stating that Zambia has neither been blacklisted nor expelled from the UNHCR. Chanda used this clarification to underscore the importance of truth, asserting that “truth prevails over lies.” He urged Zambians to be critical of the motivations behind such fake news and to reject efforts to mislead the public for personal or political gain.
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“As citizens, we must reject attempts to mislead the public for personal or political gain,” Chanda said. “Let us focus on constructive dialogue and solutions that uplift Zambia rather than tear it down.” He urged Zambians to embrace responsible political engagement that prioritizes the well-being of the nation.
Chanda also called for national unity, stressing that Zambia’s strength lies in an informed and united populace. “Zambia deserves better, and it starts with each of us choosing truth over lies,” he concluded.
This statement comes amidst growing concerns about the spread of misinformation in Zambia, which has the potential to disrupt national cohesion and damage the country’s standing on the global stage. Chanda’s call for truth and responsible engagement serves as a reminder that the strength of any nation lies in the integrity of its information and the unity of its people.
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, Hon. Sunday Chanda, has issued a strong condemnation of the recent circulation of fake news that he says is harming Zambia's international reputation. In a press statement released on January 14, 2025, Chanda called on Zambians to prioritize truth and engage in responsible political discourse, especially in light of a false story alleging that Zambia had been blacklisted and expelled from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHCR).The story, which Chanda described as "irresponsible and baseless," has been linked to some opposition figures, including former senior government officials. According to Chanda, the spread of such misinformation not only misleads the public but also puts Zambia's reputation at risk on the global stage.“This false narrative, amplified by certain individuals within the opposition, is not just misleading; it is harmful to Zambia’s image,” Chanda stated. “It undermines our democracy, erodes public trust, and risks alienating Zambia from the international community.” He emphasized that those in leadership, whether in government or opposition, have a responsibility to protect the country's interests, not harm them with fabricated stories.){kind=link}