ZAMBIA’s Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) has ordered Hot FM to stop airing the political campaign song “BM8 na MZ8 Bengile” in its current form, citing compliance concerns ahead of the 2026 general election.
IBA Director-General Webster Malido said Thursday the authority reviewed the song under the IBA Act, Election Coverage Guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures. The review found the song by artist Blaze Zambia contains politically charged and inflammatory statements, including allegations that political leaders use tribe and money to make people hate each other and insinuations of satanism by unnamed opponents.
Malido said the statements were presented without verification or balancing context and could contribute to political tension, hostility and division during the electoral period. He said while disclaimers aired before the song were noted, they do not absolve the station of responsibility.
“The Authority is directing Hot FM to immediately refrain from airing the song ‘BM8 na MZ8 Bengile’ in its current form,” Malido said, urging broadcasters to exercise heightened editorial responsibility with political campaign material.
Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana also condemned defamatory campaign songs and unverified allegations of satanism, tribalism and discrimination, saying they risk dividing the country and undermining democratic processes.