The Media Council of Malawi has issued a call to journalists in the nation to dress in a presentable manner during official events. A statement released by the Council, signed by Wisdom Nelson Chimgwede Moses, the Chairperson of the Council Board, and Moses Kaufa, the Executive Director, highlights concerns raised by different stakeholders, including Parliament and the State House, regarding the attire of certain media practitioners that is deemed unsuitable for the events they cover.
“MCM would therefore, like to remind all journalists and stakeholders of Section 2.1 of the Media Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, which requires that “a journalist shall conduct him/herself with propriety in the line of duty by dressing for the occasion”.
In line with this code, MCM has recommended that members of the media dress decently and be mindful of the decorum of the respective event specifically Parliament, the State House and other similar executive activities.
“Presentation of a media practitioner enhances the overall reputation and credibility of the media house represented and the industry in general. Therefore, adhering to the dress code as stipulated in the Media Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct is a way to maintain a professional atmosphere, and promote a sense of decorum and discipline in the industry,” in part reads the statement.
This notwithstanding, the statement has also reminded stakeholders that dressing of media practitioners also depend on the roles that they play when on duty, considering that some are technical personnel and will dress according to what would make them work comfortably.
“Media houses are, therefore, encouraged to ensure that their technical personnel have appropriate dressing. The Council is further encouraging all media practitioners to carry with them their identification and the MCM Accreditation Cards whenever on duty. This is a commitment to the Code of Conduct by the media practitioner and an undertaking of both the media houses and the Council to be accountable for any misconduct by the media practitioners,” concludes the statement.
