As Malawi prepares for the 2025 General Elections, efforts to safeguard press freedom and journalist safety are intensifying amid rising political tensions. At a Multi-Stakeholder Consultation Meeting on March 6, 2025, Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) Commissioner Dr. Limbikani Kamlongera emphasized the media’s crucial role in ensuring a transparent electoral process while calling for responsible reporting.
Dr. Kamlongera stressed that journalists must be free to report without fear of persecution or censorship, as informed voters are essential to democracy. However, he also cautioned against misinformation and inflammatory reporting, warning that reckless journalism could incite unrest.
Concerns over journalist safety remain high, with reports of harassment and intimidation, particularly during election periods. Malawi ranked 80th out of 180 countries on the 2023 World Press Freedom Index, showing some improvement but still highlighting ongoing challenges. Past elections have seen journalists assaulted or detained, prompting calls from media organizations like the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) for stronger protections and better collaboration with law enforcement.
The MEC is working with security agencies to ensure a safe environment for all electoral stakeholders, including journalists, political candidates, and voters. Enhanced security measures will be in place at polling stations to prevent violence and intimidation.
Malawi’s political landscape remains highly charged, with the 2025 elections expected to be fiercely contested between the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and the opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Given the country’s history of disputed elections—including the annulled 2019 presidential vote—stakeholders are under pressure to uphold electoral integrity and maintain peace.
Dr. Kamlongera reaffirmed the MEC’s commitment to free and fair elections, urging media professionals to work closely with authorities to ensure accurate and impartial coverage. The discussions from the consultation meeting will help shape Malawi’s strategy for a credible electoral process in 2025.