Minister of Homeland Security Peter Mukhito has warned Malawians against using social media and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to fabricate government communications and spread false information, saying such conduct attracts criminal liability.
Mukhito’s warning follows the arrest of 39-year-old businessman Emmanuel Soko over the alleged fabrication and circulation of a fake press release bearing forged Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC) credentials.
In a public notice issued on Tuesday, Mukhito said the fake statements claimed that the media would be barred from covering President Peter Mutharika’s return from South Africa and that the Head of State had proceeded on a seven-day holiday.
He said the misuse of digital platforms to impersonate others, fabricate official communications and deliberately mislead the public would not be tolerated, regardless of political affiliation.
The minister also cautioned against manipulating podcasts, fabricating audio recordings, deceptively editing video clips and circulating fraudulent digital content intended to deceive, defraud or harm others.
“Freedom of expression is a constitutional right, but it does not provide immunity from criminal liability for fraud, impersonation, threats or other unlawful conduct,” said Mukhito.
He further warned that individuals operating beyond Malawi’s borders should not assume they were beyond the reach of the law.
Mukhito said the Malawi Police Service would pursue lawful digital investigations and cooperate with international law enforcement agencies where necessary to bring suspected offenders to justice.
He, however, emphasised that legitimate journalism, responsible podcasting, political debate, satire and lawful criticism of government remain protected under the Constitution.
“Disagreement, criticism or unpopular opinions do not, by themselves, constitute criminal offences,” he said.
Mukhito has zince urged Malawians to verify government communications through official channels and avoid knowingly sharing fraudulent information.
Meanwhile, the Malawi Police Service said Soko was suspected of committing offences including spamming, spreading false information likely to cause public fear and having seditious intentions.
Police Public Relations Officer Senior Superintendent Gladys Chiwaula said the suspect was expected to appear in court to answer the charges.
Soko hails from Maliwa Village, Traditional Authority Munjala, in Kasungu District.
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