MISA Malawi Urges Action to Safeguard Press Freedom in 2024
As 2024 rolls out, MISA Malawi urges the government, political parties, and regulatory bodies to take action and safeguard press freedom in the country.
Lilongwe, Malawi - The Media Institute of Southern Africa-Malawi Chapter has called for concerted efforts to address the persistent hostility faced by journalists throughout 2023, writes Winston Mwale.
In a statement released Sunday, December 31, 2023, the organization highlighted the need to enhance the media environment and protect press freedom in the country.
"The year 2023 has been challenging for the media in Malawi, with journalists encountering unwarranted attacks and harassment," said Golden Matonga, Chairperson of MISA Malawi.
"It is imperative that we work together to create an environment that upholds media freedom, access to information, and freedom of expression."
According to MISA Malawi's statement, the year witnessed both positive developments and setbacks for journalism in the country.
While progress was made in fostering dialogue between the media and the government, instances of violence against journalists and restrictions on online expression raised concerns.
Positive developments included President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera's invitation to the media for a breakfast engagement on World Press Freedom Day, where broader issues affecting the media were discussed.
The State House Communications Team also engaged with MISA Malawi leadership to explore ways to improve the relationship between the government and the media.
However, MISA Malawi documented numerous cases of attacks on journalists, with over 10 journalists falling victim to violence.
These attacks, perpetrated by various individuals from police officers to political party supporters, instigated fear and hindered the democratic process.
The organization also raised concerns about the restriction of online expression, with individuals facing arrests under the Cyber Security and Electronic Transactions Act.
MISA Malawi stressed that such actions not only curtail freedom of expression but also limit vibrant democracies.
Additionally, the report highlighted the challenges faced by journalists due to currency devaluation, which impacted salary increments, the acquisition of newsprint, and broadcasting equipment.
The dollar pegged broadcasting license fees imposed by the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) further exacerbated the financial burden on broadcasters.
In light of these challenges, MISA Malawi presented a series of recommendations to improve the media environment in 2024 and beyond.
The recommendations include ceasing hostility towards journalists, ensuring easy access to information during electoral activities, and allocating sufficient funding for the implementation of the Access to Information (ATI) Act.
"Addressing the challenges faced by journalists requires a collective effort from all stakeholders. We must protect the rights of journalists and create an environment that encourages open dialogue and transparency," emphasized Matonga.
As 2024 rolls out, MISA Malawi urges the government, political parties, and regulatory bodies to take action and safeguard press freedom in the country.
By doing so, Malawi can foster a vibrant and independent media sector that plays a crucial role in upholding democracy and informing the public.