Malawi grapples with growing concerns over suppressed freedoms

As Malawi marches towards its 2025 general elections, alarm bells are ringing over the erosion of fundamental democratic freedoms, with press freedom and civil liberties taking center stage.

Civic organizations, media watchdogs, and activists are raising concerns about increasing repression, as government actions and legislative frameworks threaten the democratic principles the nation has long prided itself on.

Golden Matonga, the Chairperson of MISA Malawi, has expressed grave concerns over the increasing clampdown on freedom of expression.

“We have witnessed journalists being targeted and harassed under the guise of cybersecurity laws,” Matonga stated.

“This is creating an environment of fear and discouraging the essential role of the press in holding power to account.”

Echoing these sentiments, Malawi’s Media Council (MCM) Chairperson Jolly Ntaba highlighted some of the systemic challenges facing journalists and media houses.

“The media landscape is becoming increasingly hostile,” Ntaba remarked.

“We need stronger protections for journalists who risk their lives and careers to report the truth. Silence is not an option when democracy is at stake.”

The past year has seen several journalists and activists face intimidation and arrests, often under the provisions of the Electronic Transactions and Cybersecurity Act.

Activists warn that failure to address these issues could have far-reaching implications for the credibility of the forthcoming elections.

In addition to targeting media, civil society groups have decried the use of legal and administrative tactics to suppress dissent. Critics argue that these measures stifle public debate and hinder meaningful participation in governance.

“A nation cannot thrive if its citizens are silenced,” Matonga added, emphasizing the need for collective action to protect democratic spaces.

Despite the challenges, both MISA Malawi and the Media Council of Malawi have vowed to continue advocating for a safe and enabling environment for the media and civil society.

“This is not just about protecting journalists,” Ntaba stressed.

“It’s about safeguarding democracy itself.”