In Zambia's election, 98% of media coverage was devoted to the President and only 2% to the other candidates.

Omissions

• The exact figures of 98% (President) and 2% (other candidates) do not appear in any source found; the sources confirm the described fact of unequal coverage, not the precise figures.
• No media-monitoring report publishing exact airtime/coverage percentages by candidate for the 2026 Zambian election could be retrieved within the search limit.
• The MEP did not cite the source of the 98%/2% figures; the origin of these numbers (e.g. a media-monitoring body or observer mission) is unknown and unverifiable.
• The claim presents an extremely skewed ratio without distinguishing between state broadcaster (ZNBC) coverage and total/private media coverage, which is the main basis for observer criticism.

Sources

• PrimaryEuropean Union Election Observation Mission Zambia 2026 – Preliminary Statement (EEAS)The national broadcaster, ZNBC, for instance, did not allocate public airtime equally to all political parties and candidates as required.
• PrimaryAfrican Union and COMESA Election Observation Mission to the 13 August 2026 General Election in Zambia – Preliminary StatementThe Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation should provide equitable airtime and coverage to all candidates in accordance with Article 50 [of the electoral legal framework].
• SecondaryDeutsche Welle – Zambia's media freedom under scrutiny ahead of 2026 electionAhead of Zambia's August ballot, rights groups say pressure on journalists is growing. Critics warn legal restrictions and unequal media access could undermine fair coverage.