Reported By Ernest Mfunya:
Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Digitalization, has engaged broadcasters on elections coverage as Malawi draws closer to tripartite elections slated for September 16, 2025.
Speaking at a two day meeting in Mangochi on Thursday, Secretary for Information and Digitalisation, Baldwin Chiyamwaka, appealed to broadcasters to act as custodians of truth to allow citizens make informed decisions ahead of elections.
He emphasised the importance of truthful reporting, saying truth will always prevent misinformation, disinformation and violence before, during and after elections.
“Broadcasters are architects of truthful stories. With many people sharing unverified information, accurate reporting is crucial to combat misinformation and disinformation.
“Whenever Malawians want to get information, news, analysis, as well as debates; they verify with broadcasters as well as credible news outlets,” said Chiyamwaka and further called on broadcasters to act independently when covering election.
MACRA Board Director, Alekeni Menyani, said the Authority is satisfied with the current status of broadcasters despite the increase in misinformation.
Menyani, therefore, called on the media to strengthen collaboration with MACRA to ensure that information is not only factual but balanced and responsible.
“We are banking on the media to be at the forefront ensuring that information that reaches the public is unbiased and presents all sides of a story,” he said.
He advised broadcasters to install machines that filter out obscene and abusive language on electoral issues.
The workshop is being held under the theme: Electoral Broadcasting in the 21st Century: Opportunities, Challenges, and Solutions.
