LILONGWE-(Maravipost)-As the race for the chairship of the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi intensifies, industry players and members are increasingly voicing their opinions on who is best suited to lead the media body into its next chapter.

The contest, slated for May 9, 2026, has drawn notable candidates, including Alex Banda, Innocent Mphongolo, Janet Mtali, and Felix Washon.

This is the analysis for the four candidates on policy direction, resources mobilization, and membership connections that MISA Malawi members must make informed decision when voting.

The analysis is not focusing other MISA Malawi contested positions including Vice Chairperson and Committee Member as they are supporting the grouping’s structure arrangement.

Critics from traditional newsroom environments question whether a PR practitioner can fully represent journalists’ interests.

Yet, others counter this narrative, emphasizing the interdependence between PR professionals and journalists.

“The newsroom survives on facilitation and collaboration with PR institutions,” one member noted in a group discussion, highlighting the practical realities of the industry.

Another key issue raised in the debate is the perceived imbalance in opportunities and benefits within the current MISA leadership.

However, others argue that professional background alone should not outweigh leadership capability.

As the election approaches, the debate reflects deeper questions about the future direction of MISA Malawi:

Should leadership prioritize newsroom experience, or embrace a broader media ecosystem that includes PR and communications professionals?

Should the focus be on personality, inclusivity, or institutional reform?

Voices from MISA’s internal platforms suggest that members are increasingly looking beyond titles and backgrounds, instead prioritizing leadership qualities such as fairness, transparency, and the ability to unite a diverse membership.

With opinions sharply divided and expectations high, the upcoming election is set to be a defining moment for MISA Malawi one that could reshape its leadership culture and influence its role in defending media freedom and professionalism in the country.

Here is the full analysis of the four candidates on policy direction, pledges, strength and weaknesses for MISA Malawi members to make informed decision when putting one of them into leadership…..

1. ALEX BANDA:–

He works for Zodiak Broadcasting Corporation (ZBS). He is currently in the mainstream media. He understands the current prevailing challenges Malawi media are facing. His policy direction is “Defending journalism”.

Pledges, Promises:-

Unite Generations: Pair veteran journalists with digital‑savvy youth in mentorship and skills exchange.

Expand Access: Champion affordable internet, newsroom tech, and inclusive digital training for all.

Strengthen Collaboration: Build platforms where traditional and modern journalism work side by side to amplify Malawian voices.

Strength:-

-Compelling profile
-Calmness
-Creativity
-Strong character
-Vigilance
-Fairness
-Confidence

Weaknesses, Shortfall:-

-He is not people’s person
-He so reserved
-So pomposity
-Bossy character
-Unattainable policy direction

Overall Score for Alex Banda: 7 out 10

FELIX WASHON

He works for Redcross Society of Malawi as Communication Officer. He is in the Public Relations (PR) family. He has media welfare at heart when executing his job.

His policy direction is “Promoting media welfare and rights”

Pledges, Promises:-

-To focus on inclusivity
-To focus on journalists empowerment
-To focus on defending journalists freedom
-To focus on ethical and unity promotion

Strength

-He is peoples’ person
-Commanding character
-Father figure
-Resourceful

Weaknesses

-Dictatorial traits
-Authoritative character
-Unclear and unattainable policy direction

Overall Score for Felix Washon: 6 out of 10

JANET MTALI

She works for Trans World Radio in managerial positions. She is in the mainstream media. She understands challenges journalists face. She is a member of numerous international media bodies.

Her policy direction is “Strengthening Journalism, defending integrity and building the future”.

Pledges, Promises:-

-To focus on unity in the membership
-To focus on ethical conduct
-To focus on linkages between locals and international media bodies
-Equal accessibility to resources, services among members

Strength

-Very courageous
-Very credible
-Internationally exposed
-Clear and attainable policy direction
-Strong character
-Compelling profile
-Calmness

Weaknesses

-So reserved
-Not sociable
-Not popular

Overall Score for Janet Mtali: 8 out 10

INNOCENT MPHONGOLO

He works for Times Groups. He is in the mainstream media. He understands challenges facing journalists in Malawi. His policy is “Reform, renewal and relevance”.

Pledges, promises:-

-To focus on reforming, reviving MISA Malawi agenda
-To renew journalism with relevance to current technological innovation
-To push for Malawian journalists in international media awards

Strength

-Compelling profile
-Calm and composed
-Confidence

Weaknesses

-So reserved
-Not peoples’ person
-Bossy character
-Unattainable policy direction

 Overall Score for Innocent Mphongolo: 6 out 10

Therefore, if MISA Malawi members are to make an informed decision based on this analysis, Janet Mtali could be the right candidate for the grouping’s leadership.

It’s therefore MISA Membership to decide who meets their needs, and expectations.