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.