MISA Malawi Denounces Disruption of Media Coverage During Mutharika’s Nomination Papers Presentation

The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi has strongly condemned the disruption of media coverage during President Peter Mutharika’s presentation of nomination papers. The incident occurred on February 4, 2020, at the Comesa Hall in Blantyre, where Mutharika was presenting his nomination papers to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC). According to eyewitnesses, a group of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) supporters stormed the venue, chasing away journalists and damaging their equipment. The supporters allegedly accused the journalists of being biased against the DPP. MISA Malawi has since issued a statement condemning the incident, describing it as a blatant attack on media freedom. The organization has called on the authorities to take immediate action to ensure the safety and security of journalists. MISA Malawi has also urged the DPP to take disciplinary action against its supporters who were involved in the incident. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from various stakeholders, including the Malawi Human Rights Commission and the Malawi chapter of the Media Council of Southern Africa. The Malawi government has also been criticized for its slow response to the incident. The disruption of media coverage has raised concerns about the state of media freedom in Malawi, particularly in the run-up to the country’s general elections. The elections are scheduled to take place on May 21, 2020. MISA Malawi has warned that any further attacks on journalists could undermine the credibility of the electoral process. The organization has also called on all political parties to respect the role of the media in promoting democracy and good governance. Meanwhile, the MEC has announced that it will investigate the incident and take appropriate action. The commission has also assured journalists that it will provide them with adequate security during the electoral process. The incident has highlighted the need for increased security measures to protect journalists and ensure their safety during the elections. MISA Malawi has urged the government to take concrete steps to address the issue of journalist safety and security. The organization has also called on the international community to condemn the incident and support efforts to promote media freedom in Malawi. The disruption of media coverage has also raised concerns about the impact of political violence on the electoral process. MISA Malawi has warned that any further incidents of political violence could undermine the integrity of the elections. The organization has called on all stakeholders to promote peace and stability during the electoral process. In conclusion, the disruption of media coverage during Mutharika’s presentation of nomination papers is a serious attack on media freedom and democracy in Malawi. MISA Malawi has condemned the incident and called on the authorities to take immediate action to ensure the safety and security of journalists. The organization has also urged all stakeholders to promote peace and stability during the electoral process.

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