The Press Association of Zambia (PAZA) has urged journalists in the country to exercise professionalism in covering the forthcoming elections, Sunday Times of Zambia reported.

It quoted PAZA president Andrew Sakala as saying that the journalists have an obligation to report the truth and that in the process of carrying out duties they should not align themselves with any political party.

He urged the journalists to adhere to ethics so they do not lose their credibility.

He said in the past some journalists were accused of compromising their ethics by siding with certain groupings, which is uncalled for and should be avoided.

Sakala said balanced and fair coverage of all political players in this year's elections will help the country move forward,

"We don't want to have a situation where journalists receive bribe and favors from politicians. Any journalist involved in such an act should be ashamed of himself or herself," he said.

He said lack of professionalism might plunge the country into divisions and all forms of sensational journalism should be avoided.

Sakala urged media institutions to improve the conditions of service for the journalists.

Source: Xinhua