The Media Institute of Southern Africa (Misa) called on Malawi’s President Bakili Muluzi on Thursday to ensure that the youths who assaulted a photojournalist on Monday were arrested, tried and sentenced.
In an open letter to Muluzi, Misa condemned the attack against Daniel Nyirenda.
Nyirenda was allegedly assaulted by members of the ruling United Democratic Front (UDF) youth wing at a mini-convention the party held in Blantyre, Malawi.
”Although we commend you for acknowledging the incident, we call upon you to commit yourself and your government to ensure the safety of journalists in Malawi.”
Misa said it was also concerned about the recent threats that Muluzi had levelled against the media.
”On a number of occasions in the last few weeks you have threatened to deal with the media.
”Misa is concerned that even if you do not fulfil these threats in your personal capacity, that you might be sending a signal to ruling party zealots that you support acts of violence and intimidation against media workers,” the letter read.
Misa reminded the president that the promotion of human rights, peace, tolerance and stability, public accountability, access to information and general people’s participation in the decision making process were key challenges for a vibrant and constructive democracy. – Sapa