Media Council of Malawi (MCM) and Media Institute of Southern Africa (Misa) Malawi Chapter have demanded decisive action against perpetrators of crimes against journalists.
The two bodies warned that failure to prosecute offenders is fuelling a culture of impunity.
In separate statements issued yesterday to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, MCM and Misa Malawi expressed concern about physical assaults, threats, arbitrary arrests and digital harassment against journalists in the country.
Misa Malawi chairperson Felix Washon said it receives reports of some corporate and politically powerful individuals issuing threats of violence to journalists.
He said the failure to hold perpetrators accountable and the silence of victims contribute to shrinking journalistic space and undermining press freedom.
“Impunity for crimes against journalists has a chilling effect, not only on journalists but society in general,” said Washon.
MCM chairperson Jolly Ntaba and executive director Moses Kaufa said the threats against journalists have expanded into the digital space where unlawful interception of communications, organised smear campaigns, trolling and gender-based online abuse are being used.
The council warned that failure by authorities to pursue reported cases creates an environment in which perpetrators believe they can attack journalists without consequences.
MCM further called for greater collaboration among law enforcement agencies, media organisations and civil society to address online attacks and improve journalists’ safety.
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed November 2 as the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.
The theme for this year is ‘Threats evolve. Impunity endures’, highlighting how new technologies and weapons are changing the ways attacks against journalists are carried out.
The commemoration comes a week after Nation Publications Limited journalists Kondwani Nyondo and Francis Chamasowa as well as Francis Nkawihe of Transworld Radio were attacked by suspected Democratic Progressive Party supporters on October 25 while covering CCAP Blantyre Synod 150th anniversary celebrations.
National Police spokesperson Gladys Chiwawula said at the time that investigations are underway to establish what happened. However, to date there is no update.
