Electoral Commission, Information Ministry Prepare Media for 2025 Elections
MEC Chief Elections Officer Andrew Mpesi emphasized the media's crucial role in shaping public perception and providing accurate information during the electoral process.
SALIMA, Malawi - In a joint effort to ensure transparent and credible 2025 general elections, the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) and the Ministry of Information and Digitalization held a critical training session for editors and reporters in Salima on October 14, 2024, writes Winston Mwale.
The event, which brought together journalists from the state-owned Malawi News Agency (MANA) and select private media outlets, aimed to equip media professionals with essential knowledge about new electoral laws and the management of the upcoming elections.
MEC Chief Elections Officer Andrew Mpesi emphasized the media's crucial role in shaping public perception and providing accurate information during the electoral process.
"You, as reporters and editors, have the power to shape how voters perceive candidates, political parties, and the electoral process itself," Mpesi stated.
He urged journalists to prioritize impartiality, accuracy, and fairness in their reporting, highlighting the media's responsibility in combating misinformation and disinformation.
Mpesi warned against the dangers of irresponsible reporting, citing historical examples of media-incited violence.
"The coming elections provide an opportunity for the media in Malawi to redeem or re-affirm its image," Mpesi added, stressing the importance of balanced and inclusive coverage.
Baldwin Chiyamwaka, Secretary for Information and Digitalization, echoed these sentiments, describing the 2025 elections as a "watershed moment" for Malawi, marking 32 years since the adoption of multiparty democracy.
Chiyamwaka highlighted MANA's significant role as the country's largest media house, with representation in every district and region.
He emphasized the need for MANA reporters and editors to be well-informed about electoral processes to effectively relay information to the public.
"It is vital that the free flow of information is not only protected but enhanced, ensuring that every citizen has the knowledge needed to fully and meaningfully participate in our democracy," Chiyamwaka stated.
Both officials stressed the media's responsibility to enhance electoral transparency, empowering voters, fostering informed public debate, and preventing the spread of misinformation.
They called on journalists to remain vigilant against spreading fake news or information that could incite tensions and conflict.
The training session, facilitated by MEC, covered various aspects of election reporting, including navigating complex political dynamics while maintaining journalistic integrity.
Participants were urged to resist potential pressures from political actors attempting to influence coverage.
The collaboration between the MEC and the Ministry of Information demonstrates a proactive approach to improving media standards and ensuring transparent election coverage.
This initiative reflects the government's commitment to advancing citizens' access to public information in preparation for the elections.
As Malawi approaches this critical juncture in its democratic journey, the role of a well-informed and responsible media becomes increasingly vital.
The training session marks a significant step towards fostering a media landscape that is prepared to face the challenges and opportunities in promoting access to information during the 2025 general elections.
Both Mpesi and Chiyamwaka concluded by urging attendees to fully engage with the training, emphasizing its importance in shaping a robust and resilient media environment capable of supporting a fair, transparent, and credible electoral process in Malawi.