Five panelists for this years World Press Freedom Day celebrations have concurred that Malawians are now enjoying freedom of expression.
Each year on 3rd May, Journalists commemorate World Press Freedom Day but this years celebrations took place on Saturday 7th May 2016 in Mangochi.
During the debate titled "Freedom of Expression In Malawi; Progress Challenges, and Way Forward, panelists comprised of executive member for Media Institute for Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi chapter and Nation Publication Journalist, Suzgo Khunga, Elard Manjawila from University of Malawi-The Polytechnic, Emmanuel Kondowe from UNESCO, Edward Monster, US Embassy Public Affairs, and Justin Saidi, Principal Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communications Technology and Civic Education both agreed that for the past few years Malawians are freely expressing themselves on various matters.
Elard Manjawila said Malawians at the moment are enjoying freedom of expression and that they are able to freely express themselves in various matters and this was later echoed by Sugzo Khunga who who agreed that indeed freedom of expression which is enshrined in the Constitution of Republic of Malawi is guaranteed in the country.
"Yes, am truly impressed with freedom of expression in Malawi" added Edward Monster, of US Embassy Public Affairs who cited that during his stay in the country he has seen and heard Malawians freely speaking to issues that matter to them unlike other countries where citizens are being prevented from expressing themselves.
On challenges and way forward, panelists highlighted existence of several laws that still restricts Journalists from conducting their job without fear and have asked Government to among others enact Access to Information Bill (ATI) and also called upon Malawians to take responsibility of safeguarding the rights and freedom of expression.
Justin Saidi, Principal Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communications Technology and Civic Education who agreed with fellow panelists of existence of freedom of expression in the country further mentioned that the country is "making headway" in terms of guaranteeing freedom of expression.
Saidi said there is political will and Government will continue to ensure that Malawians are enjoying freedom of expression.
He indicated that for the first time and after long time, Government has now taken the ATI to Parliament which is a sign that Government wants Malawians to enjoy freedom of expression as well as access to information from Government.
He further called upon Journalists to work together with Government while assuring that Government will not no intimidate Journalists.
Before holding debate, Journalists drawn from across the country held freedom march from Mangochi filling station to Fort Johnston at the roundabout near Lake Malawi Bridge, the event which attracted attention from onlookers along the streets.
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