MISA Malawi urges Tonse administration to inspire co-existence amongst people with different opinions

MISA Malawi has urged Tonse Alliance administration to thrive to inspire co-existence amongst people with different opinions

In a statement chairperson of the organization Tereza Temweka Ndanga said that inspiration will ensure that supporters of the administration do not wield power to victimize those presumed to be without that same power

She said Tonse leadership should build on the gains and correct the wrongs which have been made in its 6 months

According to Ndanga Malawians voted the new administration into office on trust that it would deliver on its promises including being more tolerant to critical voices, empowering citizens with information with which they can use to hold power to account and championing media freedom

The MISA Malawi chair says 2021 grants Tonse administration another chance to demonstrate that the campaign rhetoric is to be translated to demonstrable action

Ndanga hopes that this year will see media freedom being safeguarded and free of attacks on journalists

“Ccriticism to media should be done in the appropriate manner as Media council of Malawi is available to handle all concerns and ensure they are resolved without bruising relationship with government and citizens,” reiterates Ndanga

Through MISA Malawi’s ongoing monitoring project they have recorded violations of cyberbullying journalists, cabinet ministers threatening them, recent closure of media house and prior approval by state house of questions for weekly press briefings is uncalled for

However, the organization applauded the administration for operationalising access to information law and asked government to finalise the process of gazzeting its regulations

It has also commended the new administration for opening up the state house

Meanwhile, minister of information Gospel Kazako has assured the media of government commitment towards enjoyment of media freedom.

Speaking with Radio Islam, Kazako said it is unfortunate that some ministers were threatening media practitioners.

He said they will seek evidence on the case and Tonse alliance will gazette ATI regulations between now and February.