Journalists debate press freedom

 As journalists celebrated World Press Freedom Day on Saturday, some feel more needs to be done for them to enjoy real freedom.

The sentiments dominated a press freedom debate held to mark the day in Lilongwe.

During the debate, most journalists claimed that although the country has made strides in changing some statutes to ensure free press, some forces work hard to suppress the same.

Gregory Gondwe, an investigative journalist, from the Platform for Investigative Journalism, argued that some arms of government exert pressure on media houses that broadcast or publish stories deemed critical of their administration.

He argued that free press is relative to the type of stories one publishes.

“Some arms of government abuse the powers we delegated to them. The media in Malawi may be free, but [more needs to be done to attain real freedom],” he said.

Media Institute for Southern Africa (Misa) Malawi Chapter outgoing chairperson Teresa Ndanga said despite challenges, some strides have been made in recent years.

She cited the actualisation of the Access to Information law.

Ndanga argued that some legal changes are instrumental in defending journalists who are victimised.

She added: “The President initiated some changes to the Protected Names and Emblems law which is monumental in defending journalists who feel they are unnecessarily victimised.”

Ndanga, however, agreed that more work needs to be done as some changes need political will.

The meeting noted that hostile economic climate continues to cripple media operations in the country.

Journalists observed that sometimes press freedom is compromised when institutions under investigation are their major advertisers.

The meeting also discussed corruption between journalists and institutions to have stories aired or published.

“We need a sober and serious engagement because I heard stories of editors who shelve stories after receiving bribes from news sources,” said Ndanga.

There were mixed reactions on whether institutions that invite journalists to cover their function should provide them with transport and lunch allowances.

Namita Biggins from the United States Embassy said her office does not subscribe to that practice, but it “somehow had to reconsider its position,” especially on providing transport to journalists.

She argued that some journalists may not be able to get transport to cover news.

“Without putting journalists in a situation where they are forced to write favourable stories just because I provided something, I am aware of issues of their welfare that put them at a disadvantage when it comes to news coverage,” said Biggins.

She said journalists need to operate in an environment where their objectivity would not be compromise