By Rahim Abdul
The Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) has been thrust into fresh turmoil after its board of directors summarily dismissed Director General George Kasakula in a dramatic turn of events that has sent shockwaves across the media landscape.
Kasakula confirmed the development in an interview this afternoon, revealing that he received his dismissal letter today, effectively bringing his tenure at the public broadcaster to an abrupt end.
“It is true, the board has summarily dismissed me. They are saying I was partisan,” Kasakula said, hinting at the reason cited for his removal.
The accusation of partisanship now lies at the heart of the unfolding controversy, raising fresh debate about editorial independence and governance at the country’s public broadcaster.
His dismissal follows his recent appearance before the board’s Human Resource and Administration Committee last week, a meeting that insiders say could have sealed his fate.
Kasakula’s leadership at MBC has not been without turbulence. In October last year, he was suspended pending investigations, a move that signaled deepening tensions within the institution.
Despite the suspension, his contract situation appeared secure at the time. Appointed as Director General in 2021, Kasakula went on to sign a new contract in June 2024, extending his stay until June 2027.
That renewed mandate now stands cut short, marking a sudden and decisive shift by the board in how it views his stewardship of the broadcaster.
Observers say the decision could have significant implications for MBC’s internal operations, staff morale, and its public image as a national broadcaster meant to serve all Malawians impartially.
The development also raises questions about the outcome of the investigations that led to his earlier suspension and whether due process was fully followed.
For now, the board has yet to release a detailed public statement outlining the grounds of dismissal beyond the allegation of partisanship.
As the dust settles, attention will turn to who takes over at the helm of MBC and whether this latest shake-up will restore stability or deepen the storm at Malawi’s public broadcaster.