GOVERNMENT DISMISSES CLAIMS  OF BAN ON ARTISTS  AT STATE FUNCTIONS

GOVERNMENT DISMISSES CLAIMS  OF BAN ON ARTISTS  AT STATE FUNCTIONS 

Government has dismissed social media claims that certain Zambian artists have been banned from performing at state functions, describing the reports as false and misleading. Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Permanent Secretary Kangwa Chileshe said there is no government policy prohibiting any artist from participating in state events.

Mr. Chileshe explained that the selection of artists for state functions, particularly those attended by the President, is conducted by the Standing Committee on State Functions based on the nature and requirements of each occasion. He said allegations that musicians Rich Bizzy and Chester had been blacklisted were unfounded, adding that some of the artists mentioned have recently performed at official government events.

He further stated that while artists are free to associate with political parties and express their views, such affiliations do not automatically determine their eligibility for government engagements. However, he noted that artists who actively produce campaign songs or political material for political parties may be considered differently when organisers are selecting performers for specific occasions.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana warned against the growing spread of disinformation, citing recent online claims that the Zambia Police Service and the Zambia Revenue Authority were targeting opposition politicians and musicians. He said the allegations had been refuted by the institutions concerned and urged citizens and media practitioners to verify information before sharing it, stressing the need for responsible communication and reliance on verified sources.