In the Chilima corruption case, Judge Redson Kapindu has disclosed that both Zodiak Broadcasting Station and Times Media Group, who initially applied to cover the proceedings, have now withdrawn their applications.
Despite the withdrawal, the court has respected their decisions, though no specific reasons have been provided for their actions.
ACB lead prosecutor Chrispin Khunga has expressed concern over the lack of reasons behind the withdrawals, suggesting that it could impact how future applications from these media houses are perceived. He emphasizied that reasons for withdrawal should be made clear.
Zodiak had initially sought permission to broadcast the proceedings live on radio, while Times Media Group had applied for the rights to cover the case on both radio and TV. These withdrawals raise questions about the media’s role in reporting on cases of public interest and the responsibilities associated with such coverage.