Malawi Government Accused of Limiting Citizens’ Access to Information
Lilongwe, Malawi - The Malawian government has been accused of ordering the limitation of citizens’ access to certain information, sparking concerns over freedom of expression and the right to know.
Failure to Implement Access to Information Act
According to Freedom House, a human rights organization, the government has yet to implement the Access to Information Act of 2016. This act is meant to facilitate public access to information held by public and private bodies. Instead, recent laws and regulations have raised concerns about the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
Restrictions on Online Freedom of Speech and Press
The 2016 Cybersecurity Law includes a provision prohibiting “offensive communication,” which has been criticized for being too vague and potentially threatening online freedom of speech and press. Additionally, civil society leaders have expressed concerns that the government is monitoring citizens’ electronic communications using new technology introduced in 2017.
Limitations on Citizens’ Access to Information
The suspension of call-in radio programs by the Malawi Communications Regulation Authority in 2019 and physical violence against journalists are seen as attempts to limit citizens’ access to information. A recent attack on a journalist, which led to the police service issuing new security guidelines intended to protect journalists, has added to these concerns.
Violence Against Whistleblowers
Whistleblowers have also faced violence and arrest, with some cases resulting in serious harm or even death. The 2015 murder of a former Anti-Corruption Bureau director is believed to be politically motivated, while whistleblowers who reported corruption at a public hospital were arrested and rearrested in 2016.
Positive Developments
However, there are signs that the environment for whistleblowers may be improving. In 2017, Deloitte and the Malawi Revenue Authority announced that 27 anonymous whistleblowers would receive monetary rewards ranging from 10% to 500,000 Malawian kwacha for reporting under the Tip-Offs Anonymous program.
Organizations Promoting Freedom of Expression and Access to Information
Three organizations have been established to promote freedom of expression and access to information:
- Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR)
- MISA Malawi
- Malawi Center for Investigative Journalism (CIJM)
These groups provide services such as awareness creation, lobbying, and production of public awareness materials to support citizens’ rights.
International Criticism
The government’s actions have been met with criticism from international organizations. Reporters Without Borders ranks Malawi 69th out of 180 countries in its 2020 World Press Freedom Index, down one spot from the previous year. Freedom House gives Malawi a score of 2/4 for the status of free and independent media.
Calls to Implement Access to Information Act
As the debate over access to information continues, citizens are calling on the government to implement the Access to Information Act and ensure that all citizens have the right to know what is happening in their country.