By Vincent Gunde
The Civil Society – Citizen Society Platform for Constructive Dialogue – has demanded a clear explanation of the recruitment and selection process that led to Mr. Brian Banda’s appointment as Director General of the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC).
The Citizen Society Platform has also demanded disclosure of Mr. Banda’s educational qualifications and confirmation on whether the position of Director General was publicly advertised and competitive interviews conducted.
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The organization has warned the government that failure to provide satisfactory and convincing responses to these demands will leave them with no option but to mobilize citizens and conduct peaceful vigils at MBC offices across the country until transparency and accountability are seen.
In a statement dated April 6, 2026, signed by its Co-Chairperson Oliver Nakoma, the Civil Society Platform said it has noted with serious concern the recent appointment of Mr. Brian Banda as Director General of MBC.
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Nakoma said the organization, as a platform committed to transparency, accountability, and good governance, has expressed its dissatisfaction with the manner in which this appointment was conducted.
The organization has consistently advocated for a clear, merit-based, and transparent recruitment process for such a critical public position, one which Mr. Brian Banda is holding as MBC Director General.
Nakoma said it is deeply troubling that the MBC Board of Directors appears to have proceeded with this appointment without publicly outlining the recruitment process, the criteria used, and whether competitive interviews were conducted.
This lack of transparency has raised serious questions about adherence to principles of fairness, professionalism, and equal opportunity, Nakoma added.
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The Co-Chairperson has called upon the relevant authorities to provide Malawians with full disclosure regarding Mr. Banda’s qualifications, experience, and suitability for the position of Director General at the state-run radio and television.
“MBC is a public institution funded by taxpayers, and as such, citizens have every right to know that those entrusted with its leadership meet the highest standards of competence and integrity,” reads part of the statement.
Nakoma reminded the MBC Board of Directors and all relevant stakeholders that public institutions are not private entities; decisions of this magnitude must be subjected to public scrutiny and must inspire confidence among citizens.
The Citizen Society Platform for Constructive Dialogue said it remains committed to constructive engagements but will not hesitate to take necessary democratic action in defense of public interest.
A renowned journalist, speaking on a strict condition of anonymity, has backed Brian Banda’s appointment as MBC Director General, saying he is qualified and skilled for the job – he even went to the Republic of China for further studies after leaving State House.
