By Shaffie A Mtambo
President Lazarus Chakwera has emphasized the importance of accuracy, fairness, and balance in media reporting, stressing that the media and government must work together to combat misinformation and disinformation on social media.
Chakwera made these remarks during a breakfast meeting with journalists in Mzuzu, part of the World Press Freedom Day celebrations.
The President’s call for responsible media practices was welcomed by Golden Matonga, Chairperson of the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi Chapter.
Matonga praised Chakwera for hosting the media, noting that it was the fourth such engagement since the President assumed office.
Matonga also announced that MISA Malawi and its partners have organized Presidential Debates ahead of the September 16 elections and invited Chakwera to participate
. “No Presidential candidate who skips these debates wins an election,” Matonga said, urging the President to take part.
In a related matter, Matonga questioned the lack of transparency regarding the names of recently pardoned prisoners, citing the importance of information disclosure.
Meanwhile, Secretary for Information Baldwin Chiyamwaka highlighted the significance of press freedom as a foundation for democracy.
The World Press Freedom Day celebrations serve as a timely reminder of the crucial role the media plays in promoting democracy, accountability, and good governance.
