On January 14, 2023, Zambian sports journalist Evans Liyali faced a violent attack by members of the Green Eagles Football Club while carrying out his duties in Mazabuka. The incident, which left Liyali injured and his camera damaged, has drawn strong condemnation from press freedom advocates. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called for a thorough investigation, urging Zambian authorities to ensure the safety of journalists and hold those responsible accountable.
A Violent Encounter in Mazabuka
Evans Liyali, a reporter for the privately owned Byta FM Radio, was photographing Green Eagles players near their team bus when the assault occurred. According to Liyali’s account to CPJ, two players confronted him, demanding he stop taking photos. The situation escalated quickly as the players kicked and shoved him, causing physical harm. Later, during the halftime of a match, the team’s deputy manager and bus driver allegedly grabbed Liyali’s camera while he was documenting the team in a parking lot, causing it to fall and break.
The attack resulted in a significant injury to Liyali’s right ankle, which he described as causing so much pain that he sought medical attention. Hospital and police medical reports confirmed the injury, noting that it left Liyali limping. The damaged camera, valued at 38,000 Zambian kwacha (approximately US$2,100), no longer functions, adding a financial burden to the physical and emotional toll of the incident.
Press Freedom Under Threat
The assault on Liyali has raised serious concerns about the safety of journalists in Zambia, particularly those covering sports. Angela Quintal, CPJ’s Africa program coordinator, condemned the attack, stating, “The unprovoked attack on a journalist doing his job photographing Green Eagles Football Club players in a public area should not be condoned.” She emphasized the need for Zambian police to investigate thoroughly and ensure accountability for those involved.
Liyali reported the incident to the police, who have summoned suspects for questioning, according to both the journalist and a statement from the Zambian chapter of the Media Institute of Southern Africa. However, efforts to obtain comments from national police spokespersons Rae Hamoonga and Danny Mwale were unsuccessful, leaving questions about the progress of the investigation.
Green Eagles’ Response and Silence
When approached for comment, Green Eagles’ acting media officer, Mathew Simonje, declined to provide a statement, citing that media reports had already been published without giving the team a chance to share their perspective. Repeated attempts to contact Green Eagles manager Richard Chanda also went unanswered, leaving the club’s official stance unclear. The lack of response has fueled criticism, as stakeholders demand clarity and accountability from the football club.
The incident underscores the challenges journalists face when covering events in public spaces, where they should be free to work without fear of violence or retaliation. Liyali’s experience highlights the importance of protecting press freedom, a cornerstone of democratic societies.
A Call for Justice and Safety
The attack on Evans Liyali is a stark reminder of the risks journalists face, even in seemingly routine assignments like sports reporting. The CPJ and the Media Institute of Southern Africa have urged authorities to prioritize the investigation and ensure that those responsible face consequences. Protecting journalists is essential to maintaining a free press, which plays a critical role in informing the public and holding institutions accountable.
As the case moves forward, the focus remains on securing justice for Liyali and preventing similar incidents. The damaged camera and physical injuries are tangible losses, but the broader impact on press freedom in Zambia is a pressing concern. Stakeholders hope this incident will prompt stronger measures to safeguard journalists and their work.
