Catholic journalists in Malawi have been challenged to strive to create news content that is factual, accurate and impartial to enable the citizenry to make informed decisions ahead of the next General Elections in September 2025.
Director of Communications at the Archdiocese of Blantyre, Father Frank Mwinganyama, observed that the media plays a crucial role in shaping the agenda in a society.
Father Mwinganyama made the sentiments during his homily that marked the opening the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Association of Catholic Journalists (ACJ).
The AGM is being held at Nalipiri Eco Resort in Mulanje under the theme: Responsible and Committed Media Towards Building an Informed Society Ahead of the 2025 Tripartite Elections”.
In his homily, which was based on the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ on Matthew 25:14-30, Father Mwinganyama stressed that in a functioning democracy like Malawi, the media needs to be impartial and balanced in their election news coverage and should not present programs or articles that favor one particular candidate or political party.
He therefore called upon the Catholic journalists to use their talents and prowess in writing to shape a better future for the nation.
“We desire to have a responsible media as we prepare for the next generations. But are we crafting stories that can help people make informed choices in the next elections?” asked Father Mwinganyama.
In his remarks, the Executive Director of the Malawi Network of Older Persons Organizations (MANEPO), Andrew Kavala, described journalists as gatekeepers of the truth in the society.
Kavala said journalists are not mere writers and reporters of news, but also stewards of democracy and defenders of truth.
He therefore asked journalists to always reflect on a biblical scripture on Proverbs 12:22 when discharging their duties.
The scripture in question states that: “The Lord tests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.”
“Your efforts to uncover and report the truth hold the powerful accountable and give voice to the voiceless. This dedication is a beacon of hope in a world where misinformation and bias are increasingly prevalent,” said Kavala.