Principal Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Information and Digitalisation Baldwin Chiyamwaka has called on journalists in the country to continue writing human interest elections-related stories, saying this has the potential to inspire people as the country is heading towards 2025 General Elections.
Chiyamwaka said this on Monday in Salima during the electoral orientation of editors from the Ministry of Information and other media houses.
He said as Malawi is fast approaching the elections, the media need to concentrate on positives to create long-lasting memories for themselves and the public at large.
“As media, we need to know that fake news has been monetized hence such trainings by Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) are made to equip journalists with relevant information for them to be ahead of everyone and report accurately as well as responsibly.
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“When writing news, go beyond to analysis and give people gratification to learn. By bringing news to the community you are enhancing transparency and accountability for the elections,” said Chiyamwaka.
The PS then promised MEC that Malawi News Agency and all media houses would continue to work with the commission while maintaining integrity and avoiding spreading fake news.
MEC Chief Elections Officer, Andrew Mpesi reminded the media that electoral processes are only regarded as transparent, fair and credible when the media reports responsibly on the processes.
Mpesi then urged journalists to counteract fake news by telling stories and giving people a voice to promote inclusivity.
He said,” It is no secret that fake news, misinformation and disinformation undermine elections, so MEC recognizes media as an important tool that shapes peoples perceptions, this is the reason we are here interacting with media today.
“We will keep fostering good relationships with the media by giving relevant information to avoid spreading of fake news,” said Mpesi.
He urged the media to avoid biased reporting by observing and maintaining its operations values.
Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) officially launched the 2025 General Election on Friday, 2nd July 2024, at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe.
The event, which marked the beginning of the election cycle, was held under the theme: “Promoting Democratic Leadership Through Your Vote.”
Malawi General elections are due to be held in September 2025.
