Suspension of Lusaka Hustle Show defied by Zambezi Magic, Zambia University Lecturer

Around five days back, the Independent Broadcasting Authority based in Zambia's capital Lusaka directed Multichoice Zambia to suspend the Lusaka Hustle Reality Show aired on Zambezi Magic on the DSTV platform. There was public hue and cry claiming that the reality show enhances the lifestyle that is antagonistic to the values and cultures of Zambia.

The suspension of the Lusaka Hustle Show was ordered with an immediate effect. The Director General of Independent Broadcasting Authority, Josephine Mapoma opined that the authority received several concerns and complaints from the public with regards to the show, Lusaka Times noted.

However, Brenda Bukowa, Lecturer at the University of Zambia Media and Communication Studies said that the decision taken by the Independent Broadcasting Authority was premature. In a statement, Bukowa said that just because Kuni wore make-up does not ensure that he was a gay. Bukowa also added that Ministry of National Guidance and Religious Affair must stop interfering in the work of Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Services, Diggers News reported.

On the other hand, Zambezi Magic has also defied the directive of Independent Broadcasting Authority to suspend Lusaka Hustle Show. Its executives said that the Lusaka Hustle is a locally-produced reality show which follows the lives of three Zambian celebrities who regularly appear on television. It said the show has been prejudged on social media without an informed assessment of the content or a clear indication of which aspects of the show are unlawful.

The show, however, returned to the screens on February 7 with the same crew, but there was no explanation whether or not the show was given permission to return.