Tag Archives: MISA Malawi chairperson Golden Matonga

Human Rights

MISA Malawi sounds alarm over online harassment of journalists

Burnett Munthali

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Press freedom under threat as attacks on reporters escalate online and offline

MISA Malawi has condemned the rising online harassment and intimidation of journalists in the country.

The organisation warned that such actions pose a serious threat to media freedom and democracy.

It cited specific attacks against Times Group journalist Cathy Maulidi and other reporters following the publication of politically sensitive stories.

MISA Malawi dismissed false claims suggesting that it disputed Times Group’s reporting.

The group urged political parties and members of the public to channel grievances through official media oversight bodies rather than resorting to personal attacks on journalists.

MISA also expressed concern over growing hostility toward journalists from the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) and Times Group.

The organisation highlighted that online threats have increasingly begun turning into physical assaults against reporters.

It called on all political and social actors to respect the rights of journalists.

MISA Malawi pledged to continue defending press freedom and the safety of journalists across the country.

The organisation’s statement underscores the urgent need for accountability and protection mechanisms for media practitioners in Malawi.

Human Rights

MISA Malawi condemns intimidation,heckling of journalists during Chakwera’s nomination papers submission

Chisomo Phiri

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi chapter has condemned the intimidation and heckling of journalists that occurred during a press briefing held by Malawi Congress Party (MCP) presidential candidate Lazarus Chakwera at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe on Wednesday, July 30, 2025,when he was submitting his nomination papers to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC).

In a statement seen by this publication,MISA Malawi Chairperson Golden Matonga,says the press briefing sanctioned by MEC was marred by acts of hostility from some MCP supporters who interrupted and intimidated journalists attempting to ask questions.

He says one journalist, Robert Edward of Luntha Television, had to be escorted from the auditorium by a well-wisher after being followed and harassed by aggressive supporters.

Matonga has described the actions as unfortunate and unacceptable in a democratic society, stating that such conduct stifles media freedom and undermines the role of the press in holding leaders accountable.

“Acts of intimidation and heckling of journalists are unfortunate in a democracy, and we believe they prevent journalists from expressing themselves freely and asking relevant, accountable questions,” says Matonga in the statement.

He emphasizes that the behavior violates not only journalists’ rights but also the public’s right to access accurate and credible information in the lead-up to Malawi’s general elections scheduled for September 16, 2025.

Matonga has called on the leadership of the MCP, as well as all political parties and independent candidates, to ensure their supporters conduct themselves with decorum.

He warns that such ‘barbaric’ behavior not only violates fundamental freedoms but also damages the image of the parties involved.

“MISA Malawi urges all political party leaders and supporters to ensure that journalists are free to cover all electoral activities in safe and secure spaces during and beyond the current electoral cycle. Journalism is not a crime,” says the MISA Malawi Chairperson.

MCP leadership is yet to respond on MISA Malawi condemnation of the incident.

Human Rights, Opinion

MISA Malawi’s reactive posture undermines Journalists protection, welfare: A call for urgent reform

Jones Gadama

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi chapter, an organization ostensibly established to champion the rights and welfare of journalists, has fallen gravely short of fulfilling its mandate.

Its chronic pattern of reactive condemnations, rather than proactive protection and advocacy, reveals a disturbing complacency that jeopardizes the very professionals it claims to defend.

Time and again, MISA Malawi’s response to attacks on journalists has been limited to issuing statements of condemnation after incidents have occurred—such as the recent event in Lilongwe during Peter Mutharika’s presentation of papers, where supporters of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) obstructed journalists from capturing proceedings.

While such condemnations are necessary, they are woefully insufficient if they are not followed by tangible measures aimed at preventing future violations and supporting the victims in meaningful ways.

Is this the extent of MISA Malawi’s role? If so, then the organization’s existence is questionable.

Journalists in Malawi endure more than just intimidation. They grapple daily with exploitative working conditions, including excessive workloads and paltry salaries.

This is a glaring issue that MISA Malawi has largely ignored, choosing instead to confine its focus to sporadic public statements about isolated incidents of harassment.

The plight of junior reporters is especially dire. These inexperienced journalists often roam cities in search of stories, only to be left scrambling for meager allowances.

This not only diminishes the dignity of the profession but also tarnishes its reputation. MISA Malawi’s silence on this issue is deafening.

Instead of holding media houses accountable for exploiting their staff, the institute remains passive, allowing systemic abuses to fester unchecked.

It is unacceptable that some media houses pay their reporters as little as K100,000—an amount grossly inadequate given the cost of living and the demands of the job. Even more troubling is the tendency of editors to pocket substantial event allowances while sidelining junior reporters who cover the events.

This blatant exploitation should be met with unequivocal condemnation and decisive action from MISA Malawi.

The institute must expand its mandate beyond mere public denunciations of harassment and intimidation.

It must become a formidable advocate for the welfare and rights of journalists within their workplaces. This includes investigating exploitative labor practices, demanding fair remuneration, and ensuring safe working environments.

Without this, MISA Malawi risks becoming irrelevant—an institution that exists in name only.

To preserve its credibility and fulfill its original purpose, MISA Malawi must take a firm stand against media house abuses. A strong, unequivocal letter of condemnation to exploitative employers should be the starting point.

This should be accompanied by sustained advocacy efforts aimed at improving journalists’ working conditions and financial security.

The future of journalism in Malawi hinges on the ability of institutions like MISA Malawi to move beyond reactionary statements and become proactive defenders of journalists’ rights and welfare. Failure to do so is a disservice not only to journalists but to the democratic fabric of the country itself.

It is time for MISA Malawi to rise to the occasion or risk being rendered obsolete.

Human Rights

MISA Malawi condemns disruption of media coverage during Mutharika’s presentation of nomination papers

Chisomo Phiri

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi has strongly condemned the disruption of live media coverage during the presentation of the nomination papers by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate, Arthur Peter Mutharika, to Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC ) at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe on Friday.

In a statement issued on Saturday evening,MISA Malawi Chairperson, Golden Matonga,says the incident occurred when some DPP supporters who accompanied Mutharika to the ceremony disrupted journalists covering the event.

He says the supporters reportedly blocked cameras and interfered with broadcasting equipment, leading to a premature halt in live coverage.

Matonga says one supporter, identified as Sameer Suleman, allegedly seized a tripod and lighting equipment belonging to Nation Publications Limited (NPL), claiming it was disturbing the party leader.

“The disruption forced journalists on duty to stop the live coverage and focus on their safety and on protecting their equipment from possible damage,” says Matonga in the statement.

He has described the incident as a serious violation of media freedom and the public’s right to access accurate and credible information,particularly critical in the lead-up to the general elections scheduled for September 16.

The Misa Malawi chairperson has however,called on the DPP leadership as well as all political parties and independent candidates to hold their supporters accountable and ensure such conduct is not repeated.

“Barbaric behaviours such as the unnecessary commotion at BICC not only infringe on fundamental freedoms of journalists and the public but also tarnish the image of the parties involved,” he adds.

Matonga has further urged all political players to guarantee that journalists are free to report on electoral events in safe and secure environments throughout and beyond the current electoral cycle.

“Journalism is not a crime,” he concludes.

Politics

MISA Malawi, MCM gang against MBC’s partial biased election coverage

Shaffie A Mtambo

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi Chapter and the Media Council of Malawi (MCM) recently met with the leadership of the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) to discuss the public broadcaster’s role in the upcoming elections.

The meeting aimed to ensure that MBC plays a constructive role in the election cycle by providing fair, equitable, and transparent coverage of electoral matters.

MISA Malawi and MCM expressed concerns over MBC’s coverage of political content, citing the need for balance and fairness.

They urged MBC to ensure a level playing field in its news and programming, striving to attain public trust and confidence in its commitment to impartiality.

The two media bodies strongly recommended that MBC reconsider featuring its Director General in commentary and opinion-based programming, citing concerns over bias and impartiality.

In response, MBC leadership expressed its commitment to fair coverage of the elections.

The leadership announced plans to launch new programming that provides opportunities for all political parties to articulate their agendas and recently recruited district reporters to ensure adequate coverage of the elections.

However, MBC decried recent politically motivated attacks on its employees and urged media bodies to step up efforts to defend MBC journalists.

MISA Malawi and MCM will continue to engage with media houses across the country to ensure they uphold professionalism throughout the electoral period.

The two media bodies also expressed concern that some news sources tend to sideline MBC when seeking diverse perspectives.

Development

MISA Malawi urges journalists to focus on people-centered reporting ahead of General Elections

Maravi Post Reporter

By Jones Gadama

As Malawi approaches the September 16 General Elections, the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi chapter is emphasizing the importance of people-centered reporting.

MISA Malawi Chairperson Golden Matonga stressed the need for journalists to prioritize the concerns and interests of the people in their coverage of the elections.

Matonga made these remarks while opening a training session on voter-centered news reportage, conducted in partnership with the DW Akademie, a leading German media knowledge transfer institution.

Matonga warned journalists against becoming pawns in the game of politics, where politicians might try to manipulate them for their own gain. “Elections are a big business, and politicians can work to abuse journalists. Be objective,” he urged.

This cautionary advice highlights the challenges journalists face in maintaining their independence and objectivity during election periods.

The training session aims to equip journalists with the skills necessary to produce high-quality, people-centered reporting that prioritizes the needs and concerns of voters.

By focusing on the issues that matter most to the public, journalists can help foster a more informed and engaged citizenry, essential for a healthy democracy.

People-centered reporting involves shifting the focus from politicians and party politics to the concerns and experiences of ordinary citizens. This approach can help promote accountability, foster engagement, and enhance credibility.

Journalists who prioritize people-centered reporting are more likely to build trust with their audience and contribute to a more informed public discourse.

MISA Malawi has been actively working to combat misinformation and promote media integrity in the lead-up to the elections.

The organization recently launched the iVerify initiative, a fact-checking tool designed to identify and mitigate the spread of false information.

This initiative is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that citizens have access to accurate and reliable information.

Journalists in Malawi face various challenges, including attacks and harassment by politicians and their supporters.

MISA Malawi has documented cases of journalists being assaulted or intimidated while covering political events. Despite these challenges, journalists have a critical role to play in ensuring that the elections are credible and reflect the will of the people.

As Malawi prepares for the General Elections, the role of journalists in promoting democracy and accountability is more critical than ever.

By prioritizing people-centered reporting and maintaining their independence and objectivity, journalists can help to ensure that the elections are free, fair, and transparent. MISA Malawi’s efforts to promote media integrity and combat misinformation are essential in supporting the democratic process and protecting the rights of citizens to access accurate and reliable information.

In the words of Golden Matonga, “Journalists have a critical role to play in ensuring that the elections are credible and reflect the will of the people.”

By upholding the principles of people-centered reporting and media integrity, journalists can make a positive impact on the democratic process and contribute to the development of a more informed and engaged citizenry.

Human Rights

MISA Malawi demands Journalist Gondwe’s protection from MDF, AG Nyirenda

Dorica Mtenje

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-MISA Malawi has penned Malawi Defence Force (MDF) Commander Paul Phiri and Attorney General (AG) Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda seeking protection for Platform for Investigative Journalism (PIJ) Director Gregory Gondwe amid his life threats and intimidation.

The journalist Gondwe on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, issued a message expressing his distress while hiding after receiving tip that he was being hunted by MDF following this week’s story he wrote about the army entered into contract agreement with business tycoon Zunneth Sattar despite restrictions order from Malawi Government as he is under probe.

Journalist Gondwe disclosed alleged that top
government officials confided with him that the MDF intended to ‘arrest’ me for allegedly ‘endangering
state security’—a vague and ominous accusation.

”Given the potential for my situation to be ‘accidentalised’ with a seemingly plausible explanation
posthumously, I’ve heeded the advice to protect myself. In this line of work, death can be
disguised as an accident, and no hospital can revive a life once lost,” Gondwe wrote on his
Facebook Page.

In a statement issued on Thursday afternoon, February 1, 2024 and signed by MISA Malawi Chairperson, Golden Matonga stated that the body is deeply concerned with threats on Gondwe.

Matonga said MISA engaged the MDF Commander Phiri and AG Nyirenda on the matter and the duo have assured the media body of Gondwe’s protection while disputing claims of plans to arrest the journalist or intimidate him for writing the story.

“We hope and trust that these assurances are true and sincere.

“This isn’t just about legal threats, which I was prepared to face head-on,” worried Matonga.

He however reminded President Lazarus Chakwera’s Tonse Alliance administration and government agencies and all citizens that threats on journalists are
retrogressive and a threat to democracy.

“We believe that if MDF or any other concerned parties have an issue with the media, they should
use proper channels to raise such issues, but military interrogations and threats are not among
those channels.

“The threats on Gondwe’s life have a chilling effect on journalists and the media fraternity. As a
democracy, Malawi should not slide back to the era of heavy-handedness on media and critical voices,” urges Matonga.

He therefore assured the media fraternity that MISA will continue to engaging MDF leadership AG office and to ensure the safety of Gondwe and a free and conducive media operating environment.

Law and order, Malawi

MISA Malawi wants overzealous MCP supporters be prosecuted for assaulting journalist

Maravi Post Reporter

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Media Institute for Southern Africa (MISA-Malawi) on Thursday, May 18, 2023 demanded an immediate arrest and prosecution of overzealous Malawi Congress Party (MCP) supporters who assaulted Times Group photojournalist Francis Mzindiko at a public event.

On Wednesday, May 17, some people dressed in MCP regalia attacked The Times Group photojournalist Mzindiko at the official opening of the Malawi Bureau of Standards Laboratory and Office Complex in Blantyre.

It is reported that MCP zealots attacked Mzindiko for firming a fight that broke out between MCP and UTM supporters at the event which was presided over by president Lazarus Chakwera and his vice Saulos Chilima.

According to Mzindiko, after noting that they were being filmed, about 15 MCP supporters who were dressed in green MCP suits, demanded that the photojournalist should immediately delete the footage.

The Times Group photojournalist refused to delete the footage a development which irked MCP supporters who later confiscated the camera, took away a memory card and deleted the footage.

In a press statement, Misa Malawi chairperson Golden Matonga described the development as very worrisome and asked for an immediate action by authorities.

Matonga said that taking footage or pictures of a public place or events such as presidential events is not a crime and those who assault journalists for merely doing their job are supposed to be arrested and prosecuted.

“MISA Malawi condemns the act in strongest terms and demands that police bring to book all perpetrators of this serious assault on journalism. We are also sure that MCP leadership knows the supporters in green party suits who assaulted Mzindiko.

“We ask them to provide information that will help police do their job. MISA Malawi reached out to MCP and its Acting Publicity Secretary Honourable Ezekiel Ching’oma said the party would be issuing a statement on the matter,” said Matonga.

He observed that the assault happened whenChakwera recently expressed commitment to promoting and safeguarding press freedom.

“We therefore call for the translation of such words into action and that includes arresting and prosecuting the ruling party’s supporters for assaulting Mzindiko,” reads part of the statement.

MISA Malawi has furthercalled upon government to take serious steps in prosecuting those who commit crimes against journalists and do away with all sorts of impunity.

Malawi Police Service is yet to arrest suspects on the matter.