Keypoints:
- Lusaka court issues gag on documentary
- Chinese chamber claims reputational harm
- CPJ warns of rising press freedom threats
A ZAMBIAN court has blocked the release of a documentary investigating Chinese investment in the country, prompting alarm from media watchdogs who say the move threatens press freedom.
The Lusaka High Court issued an interim injunction on May 22—just a day before the scheduled premiere of the documentary produced by independent media house News Diggers. The film, titled Chinese Investment in Zambia: The Good, The Bad and The Dangerous, explores the complex social and economic implications of Chinese business interests in Zambia and features footage alleging labour rights violations and violence.
Legal action follows teaser release
The legal move followed a teaser shared on Facebook by News Diggers on May 20. In response, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Zambia filed a lawsuit against the outlet, arguing that the teaser was intended to ‘disparage, demean and taint’ the image of Chinese investments in the country.
According to a letter sent to News Diggers and reviewed by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), the Chamber demanded its formal response be included in the final version of the film.
The court’s order warns that broadcasting the documentary before a hearing scheduled for June 12 could lead to contempt charges, which may result in up to six months in jail or a fine of ZK300 (around $12).
CPJ raises red flag over censorship
The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists has condemned the injunction as a dangerous act of censorship.
‘The prior censorship of News Diggers’ documentary is a stark reminder that press freedom is imperilled in Zambia,’ said Muthoki Mumo, CPJ’s Africa Programme Coordinator. ‘Zambian authorities should stand vigilant against efforts to silence the media and should support, rather than undermine, public interest journalism.’
CPJ also expressed concern over what it views as a pattern of harassment against journalists in the country. It has previously documented numerous incidents of intimidation, arrests and legal threats targeting Zambian reporters.
Cyber laws compound media fears
Journalistic freedom in Zambia has come under increased scrutiny following the adoption of new cyber laws in April. Press freedom advocates argue these measures have created additional avenues for surveillance, censorship, and prosecution of critical voices in the media.
Efforts to contact the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Zambia for comment were unsuccessful. CPJ said its attempts to reach the Chamber’s president, Tie Li, via phone and email went unanswered.
As the June 12 hearing approaches, observers are closely watching whether the court will uphold the injunction or allow the controversial documentary to air—raising broader questions about the boundaries of free speech and editorial independence in Zambia’s evolving media environment.
