LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has called on local media to enhance the quality and sensitivity of their electoral reporting ahead of the upcoming elections.

Speaking during a media training workshop jointly organized by Gazette Media and Bwaila Media Club in Lilongwe, MEC Public Relations Officer Sangwani Mwafulirwa emphasized the crucial role journalists play in ensuring credible elections through accurate and responsible reporting.

Mwafulirwa urged journalists to avoid sensationalism and instead focus on fact-based, balanced coverage that helps educate the public and promote peaceful electoral processes.

He reminded the media that their reports have the power to shape public perception and influence the credibility of the electoral system.

However, the session was not without criticism as a number of journalists attending the training expressed concern over MEC’s continued endorsement of the electronic voting system.

The system, which was introduced to improve transparency and efficiency in the electoral process, has faced scrutiny from both media and civil society due to alleged irregularities in past elections.

“We feel MEC is not listening to the concerns of stakeholders, especially regarding the electronic voting system. There are still many unanswered questions,” one journalist noted during the discussion.

In response, Mwafulirwa defended the commission’s decision, stating that the system is designed to enhance transparency and reduce human error in vote counting.

He encouraged the media to seek clarity and factual information from the commission rather than relying on speculation or misinformation.

The training session aimed to equip journalists with tools and knowledge to report effectively during the election period. Topics covered included ethical reporting, combating disinformation, and understanding electoral laws and procedures.

As the country gears up for another election cycle, both MEC and media stakeholders agreed on the need for collaboration in ensuring that the public receives accurate, impartial, and timely information.