‘APM must seize the opportunity’
President Peter Mutharika must seize the opportunity during the scheduled press conference today “to clear a lot of airs” or risk fuelling misconceptions currently prevailing in the country, Media Council of Malawi (MCM) has said.
MCM executive director Vales Machira said the press conference, scheduled for Kamuzu Palace this afternoon, is the only realistic chance to put to bed what he called confusing developments that have taken place recently.
“There has been a lot of secrecy in government on his trip and his prolonged stay abroad. Since government has been very economical with the truth about these, we expect the President to come out clear; at least to clear his name if you like. He owes the nation a great deal,” he said.
However, Machila was quick to point out that journalists have not been professional in their daily endeavours of late.
He said: “As the eyes and ears of the nation, we also have to feel duty-bound to maintain ethical standards and the President’s press conference is no exception. For a change, let us help project the message in a fair and balanced manner.
“Above all, much as we have always advocated a free press, I feel it sends a wrong message when we try to sound like we deliberately want to embarrass the President.”
Presidential press secretary Mgeme Kalirani yesteday said despite speculations to the contrary, the press conference is on this afternoon.
“Ignore the rest; the press conference is on as announced and it is at 2pm in the Banqueting Hall at State House,” he said.
Kalirani also said Mutharika will brief the media on government’s engagements at the 71st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, United States of America (USA).
“Of course, he will also touch on many other current affairs issues the press would require of him to address. He is very ready.”
Mutharika returned home last Sunday through Kamuzu International Airport (KIA) in Lilongwe after exactly one month in the USA.
His arrival sparked speculations about his health after he was seen greeting dignitaries using his left hand while the other hand remained stiff.
To make matters worse, Mutharika did not address the media at the airport as per tradition. n
