Government Condemns Social Media Abuse

By Chrispin Kapindira

The Malawi government has issued a stern warning against the misuse of social media, citing a surge in misinformation and disinformation aimed at harming innocent individuals and institutions.

In a press release, Minister of Information and Digitalisation Moses Kunkuyu expressed dismay at the escalating incidents of fake news circulating on social media platforms, including fabricated articles, fake pages, and altered publications designed to deceive the public.

A recent notable incident involved a false article claiming the government was displeased with Catholic Bishops for allegedly not participating in the Independence Anniversary National Service of Worship held on July 6, 2024, at BICC in Lilongwe. The article was falsely attributed to the official Malawi News Agency.

The government clarified that the Catholic Church in Malawi, including Archbishop George Tambala, Bishop Peter Musikuwa, and St. Patrick's Catholic Parish Choir 1, fully participated in the event.

Government reminds the public that it has a duty to protect individuals and institutions from deliberate and malicious attacks through false social media posts, which are illegal and punishable under Malawi's laws.

Government further urged citizens to unite in patriotism whilst celebrating 60 years of independence.