The Media Institute of Southeren Africa (MISA) Malawi chapter has condemned the assault of Brian Banda by alleged Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) supporters at Sunbird Mount Soche Hotel in Blantyre on Thursday, May 7, 2020.

Banda, who is currently working for Times Group, was roughed up outside Mount Soche Hotel when DPP Presidential candidate Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika and his running mate in the July 2, 2020 election Atupele Muluzi were presenting nomination papers to Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) officials.

Banda was rescued from angry DPP supporters by Malawi Police Officers.

In a statement released on Friday, MISA Malawi Chairperson Tereza Ndanga has described the attack as barbaric.

“Banda’s attack is barbaric and retrogressive for Malawi. It is even appalling coming 5 days after World Press Freedom Day when the world celebrates the importance of a free media in society.

“A free media is key to democracy and its importance during elections cannot be overemphasized,” said Ndanga.

She added: “We would therefore like to appeal to all stakeholders to ensure that the media is ‘accorded the fullest possible facilities’ and support to access and disseminate information to help Malawians make informed decisions during the upcoming elections as well as the fight against Covid-19.

“Violence has no place in a democratic society. This cuts across the board regardless of whether the victim is a journalist or party supporter.”

Ndanga has since appealed appeal to all political parties to ensure that those responsible for violence are disciplined and held accountable for their actions.