Washon Defends Credentials, Says He Is Fit to Lead MISA Malawi Amid Election Contest
Aspiring MISA Malawi chairperson candidate Felix Washon has strongly defended his suitability for the position, dismissing claims circulating among rivals that his current role outside mainstream newsroom journalism disqualifies him from leading the media body.
Washon, who currently serves as Media and Communications Manager for the Malawi Red Cross Society, says the argument against his candidacy is based on “propaganda” rather than merit, insisting that leadership of MISA Malawi requires strategic direction—not daily newsroom reporting.
Speaking during a series of campaign engagements with journalists and media institutions in the Southern Region, Washon said his track record in media leadership and institutional communication proves his capability to lead the organisation.
He pointed to his previous election as chairperson of the Bwaila Media Club in Lilongwe as evidence of trust from practising journalists across both mainstream and corporate communication sectors.
“Experience is the best teacher,” Washon said. “I was duly elected Bwaila Media Club chairperson by media practitioners working in mainstream journalism as well as corporate communications. That shows confidence in my leadership.”
He emphasised that the role of MISA Malawi chairperson is not operational journalism but policy and advocacy leadership aimed at strengthening the media industry.
“I am not going to write stories once elected,” he said. “My responsibility will be to provide strategic policy direction on issues affecting media practitioners.”
Washon also outlined his reform agenda, focusing on improving the welfare and protection of journalists, many of whom he says are operating under difficult economic conditions and weak institutional support.
Central to his manifesto is the proposal to establish a legal defence fund to support journalists facing lawsuits arising from their professional work—a move he says is necessary to safeguard press freedom and reduce fear-driven reporting.
He further pledged to strengthen inclusive media training programmes and expand digital skills development to help journalists adapt to rapidly changing media technologies.
Washon’s campaign has positioned him as a candidate focused on welfare, protection, and professional modernisation of the media sector, with supporters describing him as humble, accessible and reform-oriented.
He is competing in a closely watched election for the MISA Malawi chairperson position alongside Janet Mtali, Innocent Mphongolo, and Alex Banda, with the vote scheduled for May 9.
The contest is shaping up as a key leadership battle within Malawi’s media fraternity, with candidates presenting differing visions on professional standards, welfare, and the future of journalism in an increasingly digital media landscape.
Follow and Subscribe Nyasa TV :