MBC Brands HRDC as a Terrorist Group, Malawians React

State broadcaster Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) in its news bulletin called Civil Society organization under the banner Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) as a terrorist group.

Yesterday, HRDC held nationwide demonstrations with an aim of forcing Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to reveal names and make arrests of people who attempted to bribe judges hearing the May 21, 2019 presidential elections case.

In their evening news bulleting, read by Matilda Mkandawire, the state broadcaster said the terrorist group held demonstrations across the country.

“Munali chitetezo chokhwma mu mzinda wa Lilongwe pomwe bungwe la zauchifwamba la Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) linakonzanso zionetsero zake lero, (There was heavy security in Lilongwe as the terrorist grouping Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) organized demonstrations today,” read part of the bulletin.

Presentation of the story by the government media house attracted mixed reactions from Malawians as some are questioning MBC on its credibility.

Legal practitioner Ralph Kasambara writing on his Facebook page said some media houses are a disgrace to profession.

“Bungwe la zauchifwamba la HRDC linakonzaso zionetsero, blaaah blaahh, some public media houses are a disgrace to profession,” writes Kasambara.

When someone asked if it is possible for HRDC leadership to sue MBC over the remarks for defamation, Kasambara said it is possible and they will including the journalist who read the news.

Below are some of the reactions of people on the issue.

Paul Duncan writes; “The radio station is just a crap worthy to be closed. MACRA should offer a whip to this unprofessional conduct!!! Do the entire newsroom have evidence to back their silly allegations? They should be taken to court ajaila.”

Chrissie Kalamula said; “They should be sued for defamation of character,”

Lloyd Simwaka commented; “Was this edited before going on air??? If they did then the editor is a joke of the century and a shame to the journalism profession.”Muhammed Binalih Okalerra “So MDF also helping terrorist shame for Malawi radio.”

Moya Kamoto Bright “This is a mockery to MDF.”

Responding to the accusations made by MBC, HRDC chairperson Timothy Mtambo said they will hold those responsible for the remarks accountable.

“Someone has the audacity to call these citizen “achifwamba” (terrorists), let me tell you, you and your so called Masters will regret that. We will hold you accountable,” Mtambo said.