Mera chief calls for media professionalism

Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (Mera) chief executive officer Collins Magalasi has advised media practitioners to be professional and factual in their reporting.

Speaking in Mangochi on Saturday during the official opening of Blantyre Press Club annual general meeting (AGM) under the theme Role of Media in 2019 Tripartite Elections, he said journalists should always equip themselves with knowledge on emerging issues to feed citizens with relevant information.

Said Magalasi: “Media gurus should be up-to-date. They should be professional and factual in their reporting. This is critical to the country’s development as it builds a country’s good image, thereby attracting more investors.”

He hailed Blantyre Press Club for organising the meeting, saying it will help to build journalists’ capacity.

“There is power in what we report. Therefore, let me call upon you all to avoid sensational reporting or publishing unverified information,” said Magalasi, urging institutions to provide information to the media.

In his remarks, Blantyre Press Club president Blessings Kanache said the meeting was aimed at helping journalists understand their role in reporting issues, particularly the May 21 2019 Tripartite Elections.

He said the media will always strive to give people relevant information that is useful to their lives.