By Burnett Munthali
Investigative journalist Gregory Gondwe has called for a review of laws that suppress press freedom and the establishment of robust mechanisms to protect journalists. Gondwe also emphasized the need for enhanced public awareness of the media’s role in a democracy, as he reflected on the challenges faced by journalists in Malawi in 2024.
Gondwe, who has personally faced arrests and threats for exposing alleged corruption in government, was commenting on the 2024 Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi analysis of media freedom. The report highlighted a continued shrinking of media space in the country.
According to Gondwe, the Electronic Transactions and Cyber Security Act has often been misused to intimidate journalists. “This law, originally meant to regulate online transactions, has sadly become a tool for arresting and silencing journalists. It fosters an environment of fear and self-censorship,” he remarked.
MISA Malawi Chairperson Golden Matonga echoed Gondwe’s sentiments, describing 2024 as a particularly difficult year for journalists. “The state, politicians, and influential businesspeople have weaponized the law to stifle the press and restrict private citizens. This has led to a severe erosion of media freedom,” Matonga stated.
Despite these claims, Malawi Police Service spokesperson Peter Kalaya argued that only one journalist was arrested in 2024, citing specific circumstances. However, this statement did little to ease concerns, as media watchdogs believe such arrests signify a broader culture of intimidation.
As Malawi approaches a critical election period, political parties have weighed in on the debate. Malawi Congress Party (MCP) spokesperson Jessie Kabwira and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) publicist Shadric Namalomba both pledged to uphold press freedom. “A free press is vital for credible elections and governance. We will ensure the media operates without fear or intimidation,” Namalomba asserted.
Gondwe has urged policymakers and civil society to work together to reform laws that curtail press freedom. “We need legal safeguards to protect journalists and mechanisms to hold those threatening the media accountable. More importantly, citizens must understand the media’s indispensable role in upholding democracy,” he concluded.
The MISA Malawi analysis serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges ahead. It is clear that achieving genuine press freedom in Malawi will require concerted efforts from all stakeholders to create
