The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has summoned Times Television award winning presenter Brian Banda and Times Group Editor-in-Chief George Kasakula over the recent Hot Current Programme.
The two are accused of describing President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika of practicing nepotism in the programme aired on Sunday, March 3, 2017.
“The Authority has made a preliminary finding that your Hot Current Programm titled ‘The role of people in making the change we need broadcasted on 3rd March, 2017 did not comply with Section 5 (1) of the Code of Conduct for Broadcasting Services contained in the Third Schedule to the Communications Act 1998,” reads in part the statement signed by Macra Director General Godfrey Itaye.
Macra said the ‘Hot Current’ program of 3 March 2017, the presenters Kasakula and Banda made “statement and allegations of nepotism against the President” and member of his administration.
“Nepotism and corruption in public office are matter of public interest and you were under an obligation to make reasonable efforts to present points of view on the issues raised,” he added.
Meanwhile human right activists Billy Mayaya has commended the action taken by MACRA.
“MACRA you’re such a disgrace of a parastatal! Can you compare “Hot Current” with MBC’s “Chindunji”? If you want to ban “Hot Current” you must also get rid of the trash on MBC,” wrote Mayaya.
