Malawi is getting ready to organize the upcoming tripartite elections in September. Ahead of the elections National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Trust met with the reporters and journalists.
The organization has urged the journalists in Mzimba to adhere to professionalism and accuracy in reporting. The organizations have shared that it is important for the reporters of the country to remain unbiased.
The officials have shared that the remarks during a workshop held in the district on Wednesday. During this workshop, District Programs Manager for NICE Trust in Mzimba, Aaron Luhanga spoke to the journalists.
He said that journalists play a very important role in shaping public opinion, promoting transparency, accountability and peaceful democratic processes.
“As we approach the elections, it is important that journalists adhere to media ethics when it comes to reporting thereby ensuring factual and balanced news which may help in the development of our nation,” said Luhanga.
He also claimed that the purpose of inviting journalists to the workshop was to encourage them on professional reporting. He claimed that as it is crucial in preventing the spread of misinformation and promoting peaceful and fair elections.
“For democracy to deepen we need your support in promoting the rule of law, citizen participation as well as tolerance.
“As journalists, you also need to be factual when publishing news and report nothing but the truth to the community. You should improve your skills to ensure that the information given to the people should be appropriate and more accurate to prevent misinformation.” Luhanga said.
Blessings Gondwe, who is the General Secretary for Hora Press Club, asked the journalists to desist from spreading misinformation when reporting on electoral stories.
One of the facilitators at the workshop, District Information Officer for Mmbelwa District Council Joel Phiri lauded the workshop for being hosted. He delivered a brief presentation at the workshop.
During his presentation urged the journalists to refrain from partisan and biased reporting. They should not be a cause of rift between parties and their supporters.