True journalism must uncover the truth behind false promises, hold leaders accountable, and prioritize the nation’s needs over blind political loyalty.
Lusaka, Oct. 6 – As the Editor in Chief of The Digest, I have always held a firm belief in the power of truth, for it is a force that can never harm a cause that is just. Truth, in its purest form, is like a beacon that guides society through even the darkest moments of deceit and confusion.
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Zambia’s shift from its non-aligned peace tradition to supporting global conflicts calls for immediate political change to restore its integrity and protect the future of vulnerable children.
In this spirit, I’ve committed to addressing both our leaders and their supporters with a versatile but unwaveringly factual approach. It is crucial that the analyses and commentaries we present reflect the everyday struggles of citizens trying to make ends meet, putting matters into perspective that the average person can relate to.
At the heart of journalism is a simple but profound principle: to hold power accountable. This is not a profession where we are to craft narratives that please the powerful in exchange for rewards or favour. Journalism is not a route to riches or popularity, nor should it be.
Its purpose is to shine a light where others would prefer darkness. It is this tenet that we must hold sacred, reminding ourselves that our loyalty lies with the people and the truth, not with those who hold office. Writing what those in power want to hear compromises the very essence of why journalism exists.
In light of this, we have been vindicated on many of the pre-election promises we questioned and condemned. Take, for instance, the false claims about reducing the price of mealie meal to K50 or the wildly optimistic promise of strengthening the Kwacha by K5 within hours of taking office.
These promises were, quite frankly, impossible from the start, and now reality has exposed them for what they were: political gimmicks. It’s time for those in positions of influence to prioritize the needs of the nation over empty rhetoric. The nation deserves leaders whose words align with reality, not those who peddle in fantasies.
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Moving forward, we must embrace patriotism in its truest sense. Patriotism does not mean blind loyalty to a person or political party; it means standing up for the country’s best interests, even when that requires speaking out against those in power.
Consequently, supporting President Hichilema should only go as far as his actions align with the well-being of Zambia. When he falters in his duty to serve the nation, it becomes our duty to oppose him. This is not unpatriotic – it is, in fact, the highest form of patriotism, where the love for one’s country overrides allegiance to any individual.
In a nutshell, journalism’s role in society is not merely to report but to challenge, to question, and to hold accountable. We must resist the temptation to be swayed by promises of power or financial gain and remain steadfast in our commitment to truth. Only through this lens can we hope to serve the people and ensure that our leaders remain true to their duties. Let us remember that patriotism demands that we put the needs of the country first, standing by leaders only as long as they stand by us.
About The Author: Mpandashalo Mwewa, currently the Chief Editor at Woodpecker’s Digest, formerly held the same role at Zambia Reports. Known for championing Pan-African education reforms with a focus on critical thinking, he employs journalism to instigate social transformation.
About Our Advocacy: Woodpecker’s Digest provides in-depth analyses and commentary on issues of national importance, alongside articles on personal development and health. We believe journalism can be a force for socio-economic change.
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