Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Digitalization, Baldwin Chiyamwaka, said that the government recognizes that freedom of the press is not a luxury but a necessity.
Chiyamwaka was speaking on Saturday night during MISA Malawi World Press Freedom Day Gala Dinner which was held under the theme; “Media for a well-informed electorate” in Mzuzu
Chiyamwaka said that the government understands that there cannot be sustainable development and meaningful and credible democratic elections without a media environment that is free and independent.
“The backbone of our democracy relies on citizens’ effective participation in all democratic processes, hence Malawians must be well-informed.
Without accurate, balanced and accessible information, citizens cannot make informed choices and therefore cannot effectively participate in elections,” said Chiyamwaka.
He therefore said that journalists are not just mere messengers but pillars of good governance which includes accountability, transparency and enhancement of national cohesion.
Chief of Mission at the United States Embassy in Malawi, Amy Diaz, said that the media in the country have a role in ensuring that Malawians have accurate information on the forthcoming General Elections.
“You need to remain professional so that political parties and the electorate depend on you for fair and balanced information.
In this era of social media, Malawians depend on you to provide accurate information,” Diaz said.
Chairperson for MISA Malawi, Golden Matonga said that despite challenges, journalists must uphold the true creed of the profession. Saying that media should always remain impartial and safeguard the interests of the public.
“Let us reject any attempts to use us as instruments for any politician or political party. The media must rise above the fray and prove that it can be different, effective, reliable and fit for purpose,” Matonga said.
Marking the climax of the day, individual journalists and media houses received awards for their performance in different categories and overall winner was Beatrice Mwape of Malawi Broadcasting Corporation.
Platform for Investigative Journalism (PIJ) emerged the best online media of the year while Times TV was the best TV.
Radio Station of the year award went to Times Radio, as Nation Publications Limited was the best print media house of the year.
