LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Police Service (MPS) has guaranteed the safety on journalists ahead of September 16 General Elections.

The service has also called on the media practitioners, journalists to priotise their safety during volatile situations when handling the election stories.

Speaking during the stateholders engagement on free expression and safety of journalists during elections in the capital Lilongwe, August 15, 2025, MPS commissioner Barbra Tsiga emphasised the need to strengthen cordial relationships between the law-enforcers and journalists ahead of polls.

“Election season has reached its climax, and the public is glued to the media to hear and learn about what is happening. As MPS, we recognize the importance and commitment of the media and journalists to providing accurate and timely information to foster transparency and accountability in electoral processes, but also to disseminate credible information. As an institution, we also rely on the media to amplify the dissemination of our information; 

“However, we also acknowledge the risks that journalist face while carrying out their duties, especially in a politically charged environment. It is during elections that we see heightened tensions, which can lead to hostile conditions for journalists in the field.

She observes further, “As a police commissioner and a citizen of this country, I have witnessed situations where journalists are in hostile situations where they need the police to protect them.

“As MPS, we are aware that journalists are manhandled by security personnel on duty, but also manhandled by the public in the presence of the men in uniform. In all these circumstances, our role is clear: to investigate and bring the culprits to book”.

Commissioner Tsiga appeals, “While the police have significant responsibilities regarding safety, it is essential to mention that journalists also bear a degree of responsibility in ensuring their safety. On risk assessment, before heading into any potentially hostile environment, assess the risks involved. Understanding the landscape allows you to prepare and respond more effectively.

“On safety protocols, develop and adhere to safety protocols while reporting. This may include traveling in groups, notifying colleagues of your whereabouts, introducing yourself to security officers with necessary identification particulars wherever necessary, especially in risky environments, and using equipment that ensures your safety.

In his remarks, Media Council of Malawi (MCM) Executive Director Moses Kaufa observes that the engagement is timely for law-enforcers, media and Civil Society Organisation (CSOs) on corroboration efforts for peaceful elections.

Kaufa observes, “The upcoming election is more than just a political contest; it is a fundamental exercise of the democratic rights of every Malawian citizen. For citizens to exercise these rights meaningfully, they require access to credible, balanced, and diverse information. This is where the media plays its indispensable role. Journalists are the conduits of information, the facilitators of public debate, and the watchdogs of accountability.

“However, we know that the election period can also be a dangerous time for journalists. It is often a time of heightened tension, where political pressures intensify, and the risk of intimidation, harassment, and violence against media professionals increases. We cannot, and we must not, allow the safety of our journalists to be compromised. An attack on a journalist is not just an attack on an individual; it is an attack on the public’s right to know, an attack on freedom of expression, and an attack on the very foundations of our democracy”.

He added, “We expect the MPS to protect media freedom by ensuring that journalists can carry out their duties without fear of harassment, violence, or intimidation. This requires a strong understanding of the rights of journalists and a commitment to upholding these rights while maintaining public order.

“However, I must also emphasize that it is the responsibility of journalists to ensure their own safety and the responsibility of media organizations to ensure the safety of their workers.”

With financial support from UNESCO, Media Council of Malawi is into a series of stakeholder engagements ahead of September 16 polls in all regions of the country

Under the theme, “Promoting Free Expression and Ensuring the Safety of Journalists During Elections,” the meeting attracted participants from Malawi Police Service, Senior Media Managers and CSOs.