Malawi Media Groups Call For Press Freedom Ahead of 2025 Election
Both organisations stressed the importance of accountability, urging the public and media professionals to report any violations or concerns.
LILONGWE, Malawi--Media groups in Malawi are raising concerns over press freedom violations and are calling for a peaceful and credible electoral process in the lead-up to the 2025 general election, writes Winston Mwale.
In separate end-of-year statements, the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi and the Media Council of Malawi highlighted both the positive and negative developments in the media landscape in 2024.
MISA Malawi applauded the “commitment to free and independent media" demonstrated by the government, partners, and the general public.”
The organisation commended the Malawi Human Rights Commission for ordering the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to comply with an Access to Information Law request, a decision that, although ignored by the Ministry, underscores the importance of transparency.
However, MISA Malawi expressed deep concern over the numerous attacks on journalists and the misuse of the Electronic Transactions and Cybersecurity Act to suppress critical voices.
"The pattern of attacks on journalists in the year under review can easily be construed as deliberate to muzzle, frustrate and even destroy the free and independent media in Malawi," the statement read.
The organisation cited several incidents, including a journalist forced into hiding after exposing corruption, police confiscating journalists' devices, and physical assaults on reporters.
MISA Malawi also condemned the intimidation and violence against protesters exercising their right to assembly, urging the government to take action against perpetrators.
“Failure to arrest and prosecute the panga wielding thugs that intimidated protesters creates anarchy," the statement warned.
The Media Council of Malawi echoed MISA Malawi's call for a peaceful and fair electoral process, urging media professionals to uphold journalistic standards and the public to engage in the elections actively.
“Elections are a testament to our commitment to democracy and civic engagement," the council stated, emphasising the media's crucial role in informing the public and promoting transparency.
Both organisations stressed the importance of accountability, urging the public and media professionals to report any violations or concerns.
They called on all stakeholders to ensure a safe environment for journalists and for citizens to exercise their freedom of expression.
As Malawi gears towards the 2025 elections, the calls from these media groups serve as a stark reminder of the challenges to press freedom and the importance of safeguarding democratic principles.