MISA Malawi Condemns Online Harassment, Bullying of Journalists
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By Rahim Abudul
The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi Chapter has strongly condemned the growing wave of online harassment, intimidation, and bullying targeting journalists in the country — warning that such conduct threatens Malawi’s democratic principles and undermines press freedom.
In a statement issued on Friday, MISA Malawi expressed deep concern over what it described as “an alarming and sustained surge in online harassment,” particularly directed at journalists such as Cathy Maulidi of Times Group.
According to the statement signed by MISA Malawi Chairperson, Golden Matonga, the latest wave of attacks intensified following Maulidi’s investigative report on the state of affairs at State House after the transfer of power from President Lazarus Chakwera to President Peter Mutharika.
“These deplorable acts, often orchestrated and amplified by political actors and their supporters, pose a direct and serious threat to media freedom and Malawi’s democracy,” reads part of the statement.
MISA Malawi also distanced itself from circulating social media claims alleging that the organization had discredited Times Group’s report on alleged vandalism at State House. The media body clarified that it has never issued such a statement and condemned the spread of misinformation targeting journalists and media institutions.
While acknowledging a statement by the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) disputing aspects of the Times report, MISA Malawi emphasized that differences in opinion must never justify online harassment or personal attacks. The body urged the public and political parties to channel complaints through formal platforms such as MISA Malawi or the Media Council of Malawi.
The organization further expressed concern over similar online attacks directed at Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) journalists, who have recently been unfairly labeled as “MCP sympathizers.”
MISA Malawi noted that such labelling is dangerous and could potentially incite violence against reporters.
The watchdog also highlighted that the hostility has, in some cases, escalated into physical confrontations. It cited recent incidents involving Malenga Chienda of Times Newspaper and Robert Edward of Luntha TV, both of whom were reportedly harassed while covering political events.
“These attacks are a clear affront to the Constitution of the Republic of Malawi, which guarantees freedom of the press and the right to access information under Section 36,” said Matonga.
MISA Malawi warned that online bullying campaigns could easily translate into physical harm if left unchecked, stressing that such actions are aimed at silencing the media and eroding public confidence in journalism.
The organization has since appealed to all Malawians—especially political players and their affiliates—to refrain from any actions that endanger journalists or undermine media freedom.
“MISA Malawi reaffirms its commitment to defend the rights of journalists to report without fear or favour and will remain steadfast in promoting press freedom and access to information in Malawi,” the statement concluded.
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