Media Council of Malawi Urges Candidates to Uphold Integrity in MISA Elections

The Media Council of Malawi (MCM) has issued a statement reminding candidates for the 2026 Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi National Governing Council (NGC) elections of the high standards of conduct expected of them. The elections are set to take place on May 9, 2026. MCM emphasizes that the leadership of MISA Malawi carries a profound responsibility to both the media sector and the public.

MISA Malawi is an advocate of media freedom and freedom of expression. However, MCM asserts that a MISA Malawi leadership compromised by external interests is a direct threat to media freedom, the safety of journalists, and the integrity of the media in Malawi's struggling democracy. The Council is calling on all candidates to uphold the highest standards of independence, integrity, and commitment to press freedom.

The Media Council of Malawi has outlined five key principles that candidates should adhere to throughout the campaign period and beyond. These include unwavering professionalism, transparency in campaign financing, independence and neutrality, commitment to public service, and a commitment to the World Press Freedom Day (WPFD). Candidates are urged to focus on substantive issues and manifestos that address the evolving challenges of the industry.

To ensure the NGC is composed of leaders, not lobbyists, MCM challenges candidates for the positions of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson to include a Declaration of Independence in their manifestos. This is aimed at maintaining the independence of MISA Malawi, a non-partisan body that should remain a shield for journalists, unswayed by external political or commercial pressures.

The Media Council of Malawi encourages the MISA Secretariat to use the upcoming WPFD in Salima (May 1–2, 2026) to allow aspirants to sign a formal Code of Conduct. This code commits candidates to fighting media capture, championing inclusivity and diversity in media representation, promoting ethical journalism, and strengthening solidarity among journalists.

MCM commends MISA Malawi for engaging the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to manage the polls, ensuring transparency in the process. The Council urges all paid-up members eligible to vote to evaluate candidates based on their ability and understanding of the role and functions of MISA, and to resist the lure of political patronage.

The Media Council of Malawi stands ready to work with an independent, vibrant, and fearless MISA Malawi NGC. The Council wishes MISA Malawi and all candidates a peaceful and successful elective General Assembly, hoping that the May 9 elections will be a masterclass in media integrity for the rest of Africa to follow.

Key points

• The Media Council of Malawi calls for transparency in campaign financing and a commitment to public service from candidates.
• MISA Malawi's leadership has a profound responsibility to both the media sector and the public.
• The elections are set to take place on May 9, 2026, with the Malawi Electoral Commission managing the polls.