Back-
OoO commemorates World Press Freedom Day
The Office of the Ombudsman on May 4, 2024 joined the media fraternity in commemorating the World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) in Mangochi.
Representing the Office of the Ombudsman, Principal Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Mandy Pondani said the media plays a crucial role in the work that the Office of the Ombudsman does which centers on holding government institutions accountable.
She thus said it is important to celebrate and champion media freedom adding that access to information is essential for a functioning democracy.
“We are attending the WPFD celebrations as champions of free press. When the media is free to report without fear of reprisal, it can help the Ombudsman's office in uncovering wrongdoing, advocating for justice, and promoting good governance,” Pondani said.
Pondani who is immediate former Vice Chairperson of the Media Institute of Southern Africa (Misa)-Malawi Chapter reiterated that the media remains a very strategic partner for the Office of the Ombudsman, if it is to succeed in the work it does.
The Media Institute of Southern Africa (Misa)- Malawi Chapter is led the events marking the day which were presided over by Minister of Information and Digitalization Moses Kumkuyu.
Speaking at the event, British High Commissioner to Malawi Fiona Ritchie said the United Kingdom (UK) is committed to Media Freedom, and to championing democracy and human rights around the world.
“We see independent media as essential to a functioning society. Here in Malawi the UK has a long history of helping to build journalistic capacity and promoting a vibrant press,” she said.
Misa’a Vice Chairperson Chisomo Nguluwe said ahead of General Elections in 2025 in Malawi, Misa-Malawi strives to champion media independence and professionalism.
The World Press Freedom Day is commemorated on May 3 every year and this year's local theme according to Misa-Malawi is Guardians of Democracy; Championing Media Independence for Credible Elections.
Source: The Office of the Ombudsman of Malawi
