Parliament has called on journalists to familiarise themselves with parliamentary procedures and processes to ensure accurate reporting of legislative proceedings and keep the public informed about the work of the National Assembly.
Deputy Clerk of Parliament, Joseph Manzi, made the remarks during the official opening of a media orientation workshop in Lilongwe, where he highlighted the important role of the media in supporting Parliament’s mandate.
Manzi said the media plays a crucial role in communicating parliamentary business to the public, including proceedings in the plenary, committee deliberations, oversight activities and the passing of the national budget.
He described the media as the fourth arm in the execution of Parliament’s mandate, noting that journalists help the public understand issues debated and decisions made by Members of Parliament.
“Parliament recognises the crucial role played by the media in taking its message to the public and informing citizens about what their representatives are discussing,” said Manzi.
He said Parliament had taken steps to ensure journalists have access to parliamentary information to enable them to report effectively.
Manzi said the orientation workshop has been organised to build journalists’ capacity and equip them with the necessary knowledge of parliamentary procedures so they could provide the public with accurate and reliable information.
He urged journalists to understand how Parliament operates, particularly the stages of legislation, including the status of bills as they progress through the House.
Meanwhile, Gelard Kampani said the media plays an important role in promoting democracy and accountability.
Kampani said journalists need to be equipped with adequate knowledge of parliamentary operations to enhance their understanding and improve the quality of their reporting.
Vice Chairperson of the Parliament Press Gallery, Doris Chanache, was also part of the official opening proceedings.
