Journalist Gregory Gondwe is now in hiding after his exposé on the Malawi Defense Force’s interactions with a businessman under corruption scrutiny. After releasing his findings on January 29, high-level officials warned him about the Defense Force’s plan to arrest him for allegedly compromising national security. They threatened to hold him without contact until he disclosed his informants. It’s crucial for Malawi’s authorities to safeguard Gregory Gondwe and his fellow journalists, ensuring their rights to safety, expression, and press freedom.
Here’s what you can do:
Write to the President of Malawi urging him to:
- Conduct a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the threats against Gregory Gondwe, ensuring accountability through fair trials.
- Publicly denounce the harassment and intimidation faced by Gregory Gondwe and other media professionals.
- Implement robust measures to allow journalists to work freely and without fear of retribution.
Write to:
President Lazarus Chakwera
Office of the President and Cabinet,
Capital Hill Circle,
Private Bag 301,
Capital City, Lilongwe 3, Malawi
Email: parliament@parliament.gov.mw
Salutation: Your Excellency:
Additional Context of Journalist Gregory Gondwe’s case
Gregory Gondwe’s investigative work, published on January 29, 2024, shed light on suspect dealings with a businessman under corruption probe, putting the government’s integrity in question. This situation is part of a disturbing pattern in Malawi, with growing assaults on the rights to free speech, assembly, and peaceful protest.
Since 2022, there’s been an uptick in unauthorized police surveillance, leading to unwarranted arrests and legal actions. A notable case is the arrest of Chidawawa Mainje on May 1, 2022, accused of insulting President Chakwera through a digital message.
Malawi has pledged to international standards to protect human rights, including the freedom of the press and speech, as stated in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. It is crucial for Malawi to live up to these promises and create a supportive atmosphere for journalists.
Please take action as soon as possible until April 10, 2024! The UA will be duly updated should there be the need for further action.
