By Chisomo Phiri
The Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) has accused the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), of unleashing a malicious propaganda campaign against its Vice President Timothy Mtambo, who is also a Malawi’s top human rights advocate.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary Annie Amatullah Maluwa, AFORD claims that the MCP is desperate to cling to power and is using fabricated truths and manipulated narratives to discredit Mtambo.
Reads part of the statement:”The smear campaign against Mtambo is a demonstration of malnourished leadership and a desperate attempt by MCP to hold onto power.”
Mtambo has been a vocal advocate for human rights and has organized peaceful protests, advocating for electoral justice and accountability.
AFORD has categorically denied the fabricated letter circulating online, suggesting that Mtambo apologized to Malawians for leading the 2020 nationwide demonstration.
The party has appealed to the public to verify information through official channels, rejecting misinformation and cheap propaganda.
Further reads the statement:”AFORD stands firm in its commitment to justice, equality, and democracy, and vows to expose the MCP’s propaganda machine.
“The battle for truth has begun, and AFORD urges Malawians to stand together against fabricated narratives and uphold the values of transparency, accountability, and democracy.
“In today’s digital age, misinformation and propaganda can spread quickly, and it’s essential to verify information through official channels to ensure accuracy and truth.
“The proliferation of artificial intelligence has made it easier for political actors to amplify disinformation and propaganda.
“As Allie Funk, a researcher at Freedom House, notes, “Internet freedom is at an all-time low, and advances in AI are actually making this crisis even worse”.
“It is crucial for individuals and organizations to be vigilant in combating misinformation and promoting truth and transparency.”
Meanwhile, MCP has not yet responded to the accusation.
